Exercise is a vital part of recovery for cancer patients, as scientific and moderate activity can accelerate the rehabilitation process. But does exercise increase the risk of cancer recurrence? How can different cancer patients exercise safely? And who should avoid exercise altogether?

 

Does Exercise Increase Cancer Recurrence?

 

Some cancer patients avoid all physical activity after discharge due to concerns about recurrence. However, avoiding exercise entirely can be counterproductive. Exercise is an invaluable aspect of recovery and well-being for cancer patients, helping improve mood, shift focus, and promote a positive outlook, thus reducing depression. Additionally, moderate exercise boosts metabolism and strengthens the immune system, alleviating the adverse effects of chemotherapy and radiotherapy and reducing post-surgical complications. Overall, regular activity improves patients’ health, potentially delaying recurrence or metastasis and extending life expectancy.

 

Medical Assessments for Specific Cancer Types

 

1. **Breast Cancer Patients**: Assess upper arm and shoulder mobility before starting upper-body exercises.

2. **Prostate Cancer Patients**: Evaluate muscle strength and atrophy, especially for those on androgen deprivation therapy, where bone density should also be assessed.

3. **Colorectal Cancer Patients**: For patients with stomas, ensure preventive measures against infections are established before engaging in high-intensity exercise (above brisk walking or ≥60% heart rate reserve).

4. **Gynecologic Cancer Patients**: In cases of severe obesity, exercise risks may outweigh those related to cancer location, requiring additional medical evaluation. Patients should assess lower limb lymphoedema before engaging in intense aerobic or resistance training.

 

Exercise Recommendations for Different Cancer Patients

 

Exercise types, intensity, and benefits vary depending on the type of cancer and treatment stage, so it’s essential not to follow a one-size-fits-all approach.

 

- **For Patients Recovering from Radiotherapy or Chemotherapy**  

  These patients may be weaker than before treatment, so low-intensity, short-duration activities—like walking, brisk walking, or light aerobics—are recommended. With supervision, patients can exercise five to six times a week for around 30 minutes per session. If experiencing rapid heart rate, palpitations, or chest tightness, reduce the intensity and duration accordingly.

 

- **For Bedridden Cancer Patients**  

  Caregivers can assist with repositioning every 2-3 hours, light massage on affected limbs, and simple movements like foot dorsiflexion exercises. These activities can prevent post-surgical complications such as blood clots, relieve discomfort, strengthen immunity, reduce fatigue and insomnia, and improve mood.

 

- **For Patients with Respiratory Impairments**  

  Abdominal breathing exercises can help restore or improve lung function.

 

- **For Patients with Musculoskeletal Impairments**  

  For patients who have undergone amputations, rehabilitation should focus on adapting to new movement and lifestyle patterns, enhancing the functionality of unaffected limbs.

 

- **For Patients in Recovery**  

  As physical function improves, they can gradually increase exercise intensity and duration, accompanied by a healthy diet to restore strength, maintain a healthy weight, and reduce recurrence risk. Active patients may enjoy low-impact activities like walking, which is simple and unrestricted by time or space. Other options include gentle exercises like stretching, dancing, swimming, table tennis, and tai chi, all of which invigorate body and mind.

 

Cancer Patients for Whom Exercise is Not Recommended

 

Patients with multiple bone metastases, significant bone damage, pleural or peritoneal effusions, pericardial effusion, respiratory difficulties, or thrombosis should avoid exercise, even after discharge, as these conditions present high risks for physical activity.

 

This tailored guide encourages safe, personalized exercise routines that benefit cancer patients in different stages of their journey, enhancing both physical and emotional recovery.