Physical Activity and Cancer

Physical activity may be helpful in preventing cancer, and in facilitating recovery from cancer and cancer treatment. Besides this, it’s just plain good for you. It makes you feel and look better, and it feels good just doing it.

Studies have shown that regular exercise can prevent certain types of cancer. In one study of women between ages 21 and 82, it was found that individuals who led a sedentary lifestyle had a higher incidence of cancers of the reproductive system than subjects who led a more active lifestyle. Non-athletes in the study had 2.5 times the risk of developing cancers of the uterus, ovary, cervix, and vagina. The risk of breast cancer for the inactive subjects was twice that of those who were more active. Another study found that women who exercise regularly reduce their breast cancer risk by 72 percent.

Scientists are not exactly sure how or why exercise prevents the development of cancer, but they believe that it may work in a number of ways. Here are some facts:

• People who exercise tend to have less body fat than those who do not exercise. Leanness has been noted in different studies as protecting against some cancers.
• Exercise affects the amount of estrogen in the body, ovulation, and other factors that may affect female breast and reproductive cancers.
• Exercise can help to reduce or prevent depression, which can be a contributing factor in the development of cancer.
• Exercise can help to speed transit time in the bowels. Faster transit time through the bowels may be related to reduced risk of colon cancer.

There are very few studies that address the effects of exercise on those who are recovering from cancer and chemotherapy. However, preliminary evidence is showing that those recovering from cancer therapies may benefit from regular physical exercise when it is tailored to fit their needs and limitations.

Exercise can help improve the mental outlook of everyone who has or has had cancer. If you are in remission, it may speed your return to your previous level of functioning. If you are currently undergoing therapy, exercise can help you to maintain endurance, strength, and your ability to do daily activities. It can also help prevent or reduce the symptoms of depression.

As the experience of cancer is different for everyone, the goals the exercise program should be individualized. Recommendations for exercise will depend on whether you are currently in treatment or if you are in remission. Depending on the type of cancer or the method of treatment, each person will have his unique limitations and considerations.

Talk to your doctor about starting an exercise program or continuing with physical activities that you have done in the past. He or she may be able to recommend a professional in your area who can help you to establish realistic goals and design an exercise program that will meet your needs.

Different medications are used for different types of cancer.

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