What Patients Need to Know About Exercising During Cancer Treatment

It may sound strange to speak of exercising and cancer treatment in the same breath, but experts and numerous studies have documented the immense value that patients can attain by integrating exercise into their schedule during the duration that they are receiving treatment for cancer. We address some of the queries that cancer patients may have about exercising during their treatment. 

First off, ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology) assembled experts that analyzed at least 100 clinical trials that explored any possible links between cancer treatment and exercise. These experts then published a report of their exercise recommendations back in 2022 after finding irrefutable proof of the different benefits patients could enjoy as a result of exercising during cancer treatment. 

This year, a randomized controlled study provided further scientific proof of the benefits of exercise for people undergoing cancer treatment. 

The benefits include facilitating faster recovery for cancer patients that have undergone surgery; easing various cancer treatment symptoms like depression, anxiety and fatigue; improving the physical function of patients; and boosting quality of life. Additionally, patients whose treatment includes medication that travels through the blood can obtain better results from their treatment because exercise improves blood flow and helps medicine reach all parts of the body. 

Exercise also boosts immune function, so patients undergoing immunotherapy can improve their outcomes by exercising during treatment. More immune cells will move around the body and attack the cancer. For patients afflicted by cancers in which insulin or inflammation plays a part, exercise is especially important because exercising tones down inflammation and helps to lower levels of insulin in the blood. 

When you exercise, angiogenesis (the process through which new blood vessels are created) is boosted. Many cancer treatments, such as surgery and radiation cause injuries inside the body. When you exercise, those affected parts can grow new blood vessels sooner, boosting recovery time. 

It is important to work with your treatment team to develop an exercise routine that is tailored to your specific circumstances. For example, you can take short walks initially and eventually start swimming as you feel stronger. Listen to your body and tweak accordingly. For instance, refrain from exercising for a few days after a session of chemotherapy if you feel very weak or vomit frequently. As you feel better, follow the lead that your body is providing and increase your level of activity. 

The fight against cancer calls for the deployment of every available weapon, and exercise can be a vital part of your arsenal. As companies like Calidi Biotherapeutics Inc. (NYSE American: CLDI) work tirelessly to develop even more efficacious cancer treatments, patients can support the treatment process by integrating exercise into that time rather than waiting to complete their treatment before starting to exercise. 

About BioMedWire

BioMedWire (“BMW”) is a specialized communications platform with a focus on the latest developments in the Biotechnology (BioTech), Biomedical Sciences (BioMed) and Life Sciences sectors. It is one of 70+ brands within the Dynamic Brand Portfolio @ IBN that delivers: (1) access to a vast network of wire solutions via InvestorWire to efficiently and effectively reach a myriad of target markets, demographics and diverse industries; (2) article and editorial syndication to 5,000+ outlets; (3) enhanced press release enhancement to ensure maximum impact; (4) social media distribution via IBN to millions of social media followers; and (5) a full array of tailored corporate communications solutions. With broad reach and a seasoned team of contributing journalists and writers, BMW is uniquely positioned to best serve private and public companies that want to reach a wide audience of investors, influencers, consumers, journalists and the general public. By cutting through the overload of information in today’s market, BMW brings its clients unparalleled recognition and brand awareness.

BMW is where breaking news, insightful content and actionable information converge.

To receive SMS alerts from BioMedWire, “Biotech” to 888-902-4192 (U.S. Mobile Phones Only)

For more information, please visit https://www.BioMedWire.com

Please see full terms of use and disclaimers on the BioMedWire website applicable to all content provided by BMW, wherever published or re-published: https://www.BioMedWire.com/Disclaimer

BioMedWire
San Francisco, CA
www.BioMedWire.com
415.949.5050 Office
Editor@BioMedWire.com

BioMedWire is powered by IBN