Exercise & Cancer: A Patient Guide

Why Moving Your Body Matters

1. Lower risk of developing cancer: Regular physical activity helps prevent at least 13 different types of cancer, with the most substantial evidence for breast, colon, lung, and endometrial cancers.

2. Better outcomes after diagnosis: Staying active can help alleviate treatment side effects, enhance tolerance to chemotherapy or radiation, and may even improve the effectiveness of certain drugs.

3. Reduced chance of the cancer returning: Survivors who maintain an exercise routine have fewer recurrences and live longer.

4. Higher quality of life: Exercise lifts mood, combats fatigue and nausea, protects your heart and bones, and helps you sleep better.

How Exercise Works Against Cancer

1. Hormones & Metabolism: Lowers insulin, estrogen, and leptin; raises adiponectin.

2. Immune System: Mobilizes natural killer and other cancer-fighting cells.

3. Tumor Microenvironment: Improves blood flow yet limits the growth of new tumor blood vessels.

4. Body Weight & Muscle: Burns calories and supports muscle growth and development.

Recommended Activity Targets

·       150 min/week of moderate aerobic activity (or 75 min of vigorous).

·       2 strength-training sessions/week.

·       Sit less – stand, stretch, or walk a few minutes every hour.

Tips for Exercising During Treatment

1. Listen to your body.

2. Divide & conquer.

3. Buddy up.

4. Focus on posture & balance.

5. Hydrate & fuel.

6. Ask before you lift.

Overcoming Common Barriers

1.  Extreme fatigue: Move during energy windows.

2. Nausea: Gentle movements can ease symptoms.

3. Busy treatment schedule: Use waiting-room time.

4. Low mood or anxiety: Try listening to music or going for a nature walk.

5. Fear of injury: Start with specialists and progress gradually.

Warning Signs to Stop & Call Your Team

1.     New or worsening dizziness, chest pain, or palpitations

2.     Unusual shortness of breath at rest

3.     Fever or infection symptoms

4.     Swelling, pain, or redness in one limb

5.     Any bleeding that doesn’t quickly stop

The Bottom Line

Exercise is a safe, powerful “medicine” you can control before, during, and after cancer treatment. Even modest movement lowers risk, lifts energy, and improves survival. Choose activities you enjoy, listen to your body, and partner with your healthcare team to make physical activity a core part of your cancer-fighting plan.