Abstract
This article aims to summarize the literature on the role of physical activity in cancer patients and to propose exercise programs based on studies and recommendations. Medical advances with improved early diagnosis and treatment have increased the number of cancer survivors. At the same time, the quality of life of these patients must also be improved. In the different stages of the disease physical activity has an important role to play with its beneficial effects on fatigue, physical condition, mood etc. Collaboration between health system actors and patient education are the key to success in this multi-disciplinary care.
Highlights
Introduction to Physical Activity and HealthAs our understanding of the functioning of the human body increases, we are constantly searching for ways to improve our general health, prevent or delay disease, and to slow the effects of, or cure, disease once it occurs
Physical inactivity is associated with high healthcare costs since sedentary behaviours are known to be an important contributor to overweight and obesity, diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, colon cancer, breast cancer, and even premature death
The difference in risk reduction reported by some studies is quite striking; for example, Awatef et al (2011) found no association at all between breast cancer risk and physical activity in premenopausal women, whereas a risk reduction of 56% was observed for postmenopausal women
Summary
As our understanding of the functioning of the human body increases, we are constantly searching for ways to improve our general health, prevent or delay disease, and to slow the effects of, or cure, disease once it occurs. The evidence suggests that there may be a greater risk reduction for some diseases (such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease) with increased intensity and duration of physical activity (Gill & Cooper, 2008; Kohl, 2001), and WHO (2010) recommend that adults increase their weekly moderate-intensity aerobic activity to 300 minutes to gain additional health benefits. Regardless of how much physical activity or exercise an individual undertakes in general, sedentary behaviour (such as time spent watching television or sitting at a desk) has been clearly associated with risk of obesity, type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease (Hu et al, 2003; Warren et al, 2010). The relationship between physical activity and health is complex; there is a general consensus that a sufficient level of physical activity is required to maintain health (the current recommendations are 150 minutes of moderate physical activity a week), and in addition, higher levels of physical activity and exercise can further improve health and have added benefits in reducing known disease risk factors
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