Attention Cancer Patients: Get Active and Stay Healthy

By Melanie Bowen
Attention Cancer Patients: Get Active and Stay Healthy!

Physical activity is an important part of managing cancer. Fit cancer patients have better energy balance and fewer cancer symptoms. Studies have shown that physical activity reduces the risk of colon, breast, endometrial, prostate, and mesothelioma cancer. Here are some of the ways that fitness can help to manage the health of a cancer patient.

Benefits of Fitness and Cancer

In addition to helping control cancer, exercise can help with other aspects of health that may exacerbate cancer. For instance, fitness can help patients control weight, prevent diabetes, and lower blood pressure. People who have cancer may also develop psychological problems. Exercise releases endorphins and improves the mood of individuals who may be feeling depressed about their situation. The most important aspect of fitness is that it may prevent premature death in cancer patients.

Some studies have shown the risk of certain types of cancer can be reduced between 30 and 40 percent with exercise. Sedentary people may increase their chances of getting cancer when they do not engage in exercise. Exercise is important to the treatment regimen of any patient.

How Much Exercise Do Cancer Patients Need?

Studies have shown that half of Americans do not meet the recommended requirements for exercise. Lack of exercise can prevent cancer patients from improving their health. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend that people exercise for at least 30 minutes daily. Exercise should range from mild to moderate activity for at least five times per week. Children should receive one hour of physical activity daily five or more days per week.

This may include walking, jogging, aerobics, organized sports, or even household activities. Many people involve their support groups in exercise to remain motivated. Often, cancer patients will train for and participate in cancer walks to promote exercise in their treatment regimens. Some cancer patients may become too weak to participate due to anemia and other conditions. Support groups can help cancer patients during the times of weakness.

Engage in Fitness for Better Health!

Fitness is an important part of managing cancer. Speak with your physician about your particular condition to determine how you can improve your health or fitness. When you are healthy and active, your health will improve faster. Get active and prolong your life!

The Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance Blog