Guest post about benefits of exercise for cancer patients

David Haas from the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance
(http://about.me/haasblog) asked me to post this short article he wrote.

Thanks, David.

Cancer: Physical Fitness, Well-Being, and Recovery

One of the most important components in fighting cancer is a positive mental outlook combined with an optimal level of overall fitness. Physical fitness plays an essential part in reducing stress, fatigue, and depression during cancer treatment and recovery, and contributes to a positive mental state and enhanced feeling of well-being. Studies have shown that even 30 minutes of activity, such as taking a walk every day, provides a beneficial effect for cancer patients at any stage. An improved level of physical fitness boosts the mental and physical stamina needed to fight this disease, and can reduce the risk of a recurrence of some cancers by up to 40%. For example, Mesothelioma doctors have discovered that an increase in fitness levels improved lung function and increased the length and quality of life in patients after diagnosis and mesothelioma treatment.

According to studies conducted by the National Cancer Institute and other research facilities, physical activity and fitness can also have a direct and specific bearing on the development and recurrence of certain types of cancer. Decreasing the amount of fat in the body increases the level of certain hormones, including estrogen, which affect the growth and development of tumors. Regular exercise also causes the release of endorphins, which elevate mood, reduce stress, and aid in pain management.

Some other benefits of better fitness on treatment and recovery can include:

- An increase in energy and reduction of fatigue.
- A lessening of the occurrence and severity of some of the side-effects of treatment, such as loss of appetite, insomnia, constipation, weight gain, muscle weakness, and osteoporosis.
- A reduction of the occurrence and severity of secondary health issues caused by cancer treatment and certain medications. This includes high blood pressure, heart and kidney disease, and abnormal blood sugar levels.
- A shorter recovery time after treatment.
- A better prognosis and lower incidence of recurrence.

Physical fitness during and after cancer treatment equals better overall health, lower stress levels, and an improved sense of emotional well-being. It can help provide you with a better quality of life in recovery and beyond. While it is never too late to begin a regimen of physical activity, it is important to speak with your doctor to decide what level of activity is right for you, and how to incorporate it into your treatment and recovery plan.