Exercise recommended for cancer patients undergoing treatment
Patients with cancer can benefit from physical activity during their cancer care pathway, especially those who suffer from side effects like cardiovascular disease. A review by Macmillan Cancer Support, a British charity, suggests that following an exercise programme not only increases cardiorespiratory fitness but also leads to fewer related post-operative complications and shorter hospital stays.
A result of cardiotoxicity, characterised by impaired heart structure and function due to cancer treatment, cardiovascular diseases and cancer often share the same risk factors – cancer patients should thus receive a tailored exercise prescription to protect their heart.
Dr. Flavio D’Ascenzi, University of Siena (UNISI), in Tuscany, Italy, said that exercise needs to begin immediately for a patient diagnosed with cancer, with an individualised exercise plan that accounts for the patient’s personal history, type of cancer treatment, response to exercise, and personal preferences. Dr. D’Ascenzi advises forming a multidisciplinary team to devise a suitable exercise prescription, including the appropriate ‘dose’ of exercise and its intensity, type of training, and training volume (hours/minutes).
“Defining the intensity and volume of exercise is important for maximising the benefits of physical activity while avoiding muscular soreness, fatigue, and sleep disorders,” said Dr. D’Ascenzi.
He suggests endurance training for improving cardiovascular performance and reducing inflammation, or resistance training for frail cancer patients. Other types of exercise, such as inspiratory muscle training, are also safe and effective, particularly in those with thoracic cancer.
However, while ongoing treatment is not a contraindication to exercise, patients are nevertheless urged to consult their doctor before starting a new activity. A doctor familiar with a patient’s complications can provide specific guidance on the matter, such as avoiding high-intensity activity for patients with low haemoglobin levels or contact sports for those with low platelet levels (for blood clotting).
Dr. D’Ascenzi surmises that physical activity before; during and after cancer treatment can counteract their negative effects on the cardiovascular system. Moreover, “It can relieve symptoms such as nausea and fatigue,which is relatively common in cancer patients.”
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