Further information
Research
Researchers from UWA and the SolarisCare Foundation are investigating the potential effects of exercise or complementary therapy on the possible unwanted side-effects of chemotherapy treatment for NHL and myeloma patients.
The Thriving Exercise and Cancer Program incorporates research and clinical services to improve the health status of people affected by cancer.
There is an aim on fostering long-term positive health behaviours through exercise and other lifestyle factors, such as nutrition.
The programs and research conducted through the program cater for a wide variety of individuals regardless of previous exercise experience and can be tailored based on disease history.
Exercise is a key lifestyle strategy which can improve the physical and mental quality of life of survivors and patients. It can help them ‘thrive’ throughout treatment and recovery.
Exercise and cancer: what you need to know
- Staying active after treatment can lower a patients risk of recurrence and can lead to longer survival.
- Exercise effectively combats many of the side effects of treatment, including:
- Fatigue
- Nausea and anorexia
- Anaemia
- Depression and anxiety
- Body composition changes.
- Very little risk of harm if professional exercise advice is followed.
A majority of cancer survivors would be interested (81 per cent) and able (85 per cent) to participate in a specifically designed exercise program [Courneya et al. 2006]
Exercise and the cancer experience
A majority of cancer patients and survivors state they want to receive information about exercise at some point during their cancer experience, but only 42 per cent report being informed about physical activity.
With the numerous benefits of exercise during and post treatment it is important patients are aware of their various exercise options.
Previous research has shown 68 per cent of patients believed exercise was beneficial during their treatment, and 78 per cent claim they are not doing as much exercise as they desired.Getting started can be the hardest part so it is a good idea to seek expert advice and talk with your doctors before beginning any program.[Jones & Courneya, 2002; Midtgaard, J., et al. 2009]
University information
CRICOS Code: 00126G
