The incidence of cancer in Anguilla appears to be increasing but, fortunately, many individuals are now successfully overcoming this condition. There are many treatment option plans for treating a variety of cancers but, in most of these plans, exercise plays a pivotal role.
Why is exercise important for individuals with cancer?
Many years ago people were under the impression that an individual undergoing cancer treatment should just rest. Although rest is necessary, it is important for cancer survivors not to become completely inactive.
Total lack of exercise or activity could lead to loss of muscle mass and subsequent weight loss. Numerous studies have proven that exercise is not detrimental to cancer survivors, but rather improves physical condition and quality of life while reducing fatigue. Fatigue is a common side effect of cancer itself and various medications used for treating cancer.
How much exercise is needed?
Obviously, this will vary from person to person and also depends on the type of cancer, stage of cancer and any other medical disorders.
When it comes to how much cancer survivors should exercise, the American Cancer Society recommends 150 minutes a week. This could easily be broken up into 30 minutes of exercise, five days a week, with two days or sessions dedicated to strength training. Each patient must be evaluated individually and your doctor should be involved in this discussion.
In the event that the disease or its treatment dictates that bed rest is a must, then reduced ?tness, strength, and loss of lean body mass, can be expected.
Physiotherapy during bed rest is therefore advised to maintain strength and range of motion and help to counteract fatigue and depression. A little activity as tolerated by the cancer survivor is better than none at all.
Making important changes
The idea of making a lifestyle change with regard to exercise and diet is important for all of us, but especially the cancer survivor. Previous and current research suggest that these lifestyle changes aid in reducing the chance of second malignancies, heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis and functional decline, for which cancer survivors are at high risk.
It is advised that the cancer survivor begins some form of physical activity as soon as possible, following diagnosis, even if it is as simple as a brief walk daily. Exercising under the supervision of an exercise professional is best – or at the very least a caregiver or partner should be present for the safety of the cancer survivor.
Once cancer treatment is complete, the cancer survivor should continue with a regular exercise programme. This can take the form of any exercise that is safe and enjoyable. There are a variety of exercise programmes. Choose one that you like and enjoying doing. It could be just brisk walking, swimming or even dancing.
Exercise and cancer prevention
Being physically active, and being involved in some form of exercise, is known by many to be good for heart and prevention of heart-related conditions. There is a lot of evidence that it can also reduce the risk of developing breast, bowel or endometrium(womb) cancer.
Conclusion
There is convincing evidence that being active and doing some form of exercise can help people during and following cancer treatment. If you are a cancer patient, and want to be more active, discuss with your doctor what would work best for you.
Ask Your Doctor is a health education column and is not a substitute for medical advice from your physician. The reader should consult his or her physician for specific information concerning specific medical conditions. While all reasonable efforts have been made to ensure that all information presented is accurate, as research and development in the medical field are ongoing, it is possible that new findings may supersede some data presented.
Dr Brett Hodge MB BS DGO MRCOG, is an Obstetrician/Gynaecologist and Family Doctor who has over thirty-two years in clinical practice. Dr Hodge has a medical practice in The Johnson Building in The Valley (Tel: 264 4975828).
