Faqs
FAQS
Is exercise safe during active treatment (like chemotherapy or radiation)?
Exercise is safe and highly recommended for most patients. It must be adapted based on side effects, daily tolerance, and any contraindications (e.g., fever, severe anemia, or low platelets).
What is the single biggest benefit of exercise for cancer patients?
Reducing Cancer-Related Fatigue (CRF). Exercise is one of the most effective, evidence-based treatments for the severe, debilitating fatigue associated with cancer and its treatments.
How much exercise should a cancer survivor aim for?
The goal is generally the public health guideline: 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise, plus two sessions per week of resistance (strength) training.
Does exercise reduce the risk of cancer coming back (recurrence)?
Yes. For several cancers (especially breast and colorectal), higher levels of post-diagnosis physical activity are associated with a significant reduction (up to 30-40%) in cancer-specific mortality and recurrence risk.
What kind of exercise is best: aerobic or resistance training?
A combination of both. Aerobic exercise improves cardiovascular fitness and reduces fatigue, while resistance training is essential for maintaining muscle mass, bone density, and strength.
Can exercise help with side effects like joint pain from hormone therapy?
Yes. Resistance training and aerobic exercise are proven to reduce the severity of arthralgia (joint pain) caused by Aromatase Inhibitors (AIs), helping patients stay adherent to their medication.
If I feel weak or fatigued, shouldn't I rest instead of exercising?
No. While rest is needed for acute exhaustion, prolonged rest and inactivity worsen CRF. Even light activity, like a 10-minute walk, is more beneficial than being completely sedentary.
What should I do if my blood counts are low (e.g., neutropenia)?
Adjust or stop. If you have a fever or severe neutropenia/anemia, stop high-intensity exercise. If platelets are low, avoid contact or high-impact activities to prevent bleeding risk. Consult your care team.
I have CIPN (nerve damage). Can exercise help?
Yes. Moderate, structured exercise, especially balance training, is crucial for improving balance, reducing the risk of falls, and maintaining functional capacity despite chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy.
How soon after surgery can I start exercising?
As soon as medically cleared. Typically, gentle walking can begin quickly, but resistance training and heavy lifting must be avoided for at least 6 to 8 weeks (or longer, per surgeon’s advice) to allow surgical incisions to heal and minimize hernia risk.
