Exercise boosts recovery for breast cancer survivors: experts
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For many breast cancer patients, exercise is proving to be an essential part of their treatment journey.
Incorporating daily walks and light strength training during treatment can help manage common side effects like fatigue and muscle weakness. While exercise won't cure cancer, it can improve physical strength, make everyday activities easier, and provide patients with a sense of control and hope during difficult times.
Oncologists increasingly recommend physical activity as part of cancer care.
Patients who include activities like yoga and walking in their routine often experience improved overall health and are better able to tolerate cancer treatments. Even short walks and simple strength exercises can help rebuild muscle, reduce fatigue, and boost confidence during the recovery process.
A recent study published in Springer Nature Link supports these observations. It found that resistance training or high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can increase anti-cancer proteins, known as myokines, potentially helping reduce recurrence risk among breast cancer survivors. Though further research is needed, these findings are encouraging.
Exercise is increasingly being recognised as an important part of cancer care, with research showing that optimising a patient’s health through physical activity during rehabilitation can improve surgical outcomes and overall recovery.
Many cancer patients experience muscle loss and weakened bones due to the disease and its treatments, and prehabilitation practices like exercise, yoga, and breathing techniques can help strengthen the body, improve circulation, and support faster recovery.
Experts recommend strength training especially for breast, prostate, and colon cancer patients, but caution that exercise plans should be tailored to individual needs. Regular activity not only improves physical strength but also helps manage anxiety and enhances the body’s ability to recover, offering patients a sense of control in their healing journey.