New research presented this month at the 16th International Conference on Cancer Nursing (ICCN) proves again that it's never too late to gain the benefits of exercise. Even after a cancer diagnosis, regular, moderate physical activity can lead to many improvements in quality of life.
The study assigned 138 people in active cancer treatment to perform either their usual level of activity or to begin a walking program designed to increase to a minimum of 30 minutes, 5 days per week. The patients had prostate or breast cancer and were receiving chemotherapy and/or radiation therapy.
Simply Walking Gives Impressive Results for Those with Cancer
The people assigned to the walking exercise program had less fatigue, less symptom distress, and a better mood compared with those performing their usual level of activity. The exercisers also reported more vigor, less emotional distress, and better emotional well-being.
What About Exercise and Colon Cancer?
Even though this study looked at breast and prostate cancer patients, the results likely apply to people with other types of cancer, including colorectal cancer. In presenting their results at the ICCN meeting, the study authors concluded, "A flexible, home-based exercise program has few risks and potential benefit that may be attainable for solid tumor patients, regardless of diagnosis."
Solid tumors include those that have a solid, definable mass that usually does not contain cysts or liquid areas. This includes cancers of the colon and rectum, breast, prostate, lung, pancreas, stomach, bones, and more. Solid tumors are different from the so-called "liquid tumors", such as lymphoma, leukemia, and myeloma.
Get Moving, Feel Better
Walking 30 minutes per day at a moderate to brisk pace is something that most people can do. If you are able to walk, you just need a good pair of tennis shoes and a safe place to walk. If you haven't exercised recently, talk to your doctor before starting an exercise program.
Once you get the OK from your doctor, you can begin with 5 to 10 minutes of brisk walking per day. Do this for one to two weeks. Add an additional 5 minutes to your walking time after one to two weeks. Continue to add an additional 5 minutes to your walking time each week until you've worked your way up to 30 minutes total.
Better Survival Too
And beyond the immediate benefits of feeling better during treatment are long term benefits for colon cancer survivors. Research tells us that regular exercise may improve survival in people diagnosed with colon cancer.
So lace up those sneakers today and get started. Who knew that something as simple as putting one foot in front of the other, for 30 minutes each day, not only helps cancer patients feel better, but might just save lives?
