The Power of Fitness for Cancer Survivors
There has long been evidence suggesting that a combination of exercise and diet may help prevent certain types of cancer. Now, there is evidence suggesting that a proper diet and sufficient exercise may prevent some cancers from returning. Even patients with a very rare and mostly terminal cancer such as mesothelioma may enjoy some benefits of regular fitness. People who are in better shape tend to have a longer mesothelioma life expectancy, and it has also shown that people’s bodies that are in good shape often handle treatment better.
Patients who did a lot of exercise prior to their diagnosis should continue to do so post-diagnosis. Even walking around can help a patient avoid blood clots in their legs. This is a common concern for patients who have spent a significant amount of time in bed while receiving initial treatment. Patients who did not exercise prior to their diagnosis may still benefit from light exercise such as walking or swimming. General benefits of regular exercise include increased energy, stronger bones and muscles, improved mood, added confidence, reduced fatigue and a lower risk of cardiovascular disease and diabetes.
Studies have shown that women with breast cancer who exercise after treatment live longer and have less recurrence. Similar results have been shown for people with colorectal cancer and lung cancer. Colleen Doyle, a nutrition expert for the American Cancer Society, contends that exercise has the same benefits for cancer survivors as it does for anybody else who follows a steady fitness routine. The following types of exercises have been shown to be good for patients following cancer treatment:
• Flexibility exercises such as stretching
• Aerobic exercises such as walking, swimming and jogging
• Resistance training such as light to moderate lifting
Patients should start exercising right after treatment if possible or possibly during treatment. Studies show that some patients tend to slow down their activity level following treatment. This may lead to bouts of depression and increased stress and fatigue. Patients should discuss any type of exercise routine with their doctor. Patients have reported feeling better with even mild to moderate exercise.
