Strength Training as an Adjunct to the Maintenance of Muscle Mass in Patients with Head and Neck Cancer

Abstract

Head and neck cancer (HNC) is one of the most common types of the disease, particularly among men, and is characterized by a high incidence of death. Among the non-pharmacological factors that help in survival and improving quality of life is physical exercise, especially strength training. The purpose of this short communication was to briefly review the literature and present a training proposal for oncology patients with HNC. Evidence is provided that physical exercise, mainly short-term strength (HIIT [High-Intensity Interval Training]) and aerobic training, contributes to increased expectation and quality of life in cancer survivors. After reviewing the current state of literature, we conclude that strength training, by providing maintenance of muscle mass, improves the autonomy and quality of life of oncology patients with HNC.