Physical Activity with Cancer

Up to one-third of cancer-related deaths are related to obesity with a sedentary lifestyle, including two of the most common cancers in the United States, breast and colon cancer.

New research has shown that exercise is not only safe but encouraged during cancer treatment. It may lower cancer risk by helping control weight, reduce sex hormones or insulin, and strengthen the immune system; and it can boost the quality of life during cancer treatment 

Many cancer care teams are urging their patients to be as physically active as possible during cancer treatment. When the body is not being physically active, the muscles can weaken, reducing the range of motion.

Research shows that people who exercise regularly appear to have a lower cancer risk. Patients who are physically active are less likely to relapse and are more likely to survive than patients who are not physically active.

• Colon cancer: Studies that follow large groups of people over time show that individuals who exercise regularly appear to have a lower risk of developing colon cancer.

• Breast cancer: Similar large, long-term studies show that women who engage in moderate to vigorous exercise for more than three hours per week have a 30% to 40% lower risk of breast cancer.

 There is therapeutic value in staying physically active and can help you alleviate stress. Doing some form of activity like taking a walk is better than no activity at all.

If you are interested in physical therapy, you can speak to your healthcare provider.