Cancer, a complex disease impacting any or multiple parts of the body, is considered a leading cause of death worldwide. The management of cancer symptoms through exercise has been under investigation for some time.
Based on global figures, it is estimated that 1 in 5 people will develop a form of cancer in their lifetime. Deaths average approximately 1 in 11 women and 1 in 8 men. For women, breast cancer is one of the most prevalent cancers.
A standardised prescription for exercise pre-during and post-cancer diagnosis and treatment is not fully established. However, a variety of guidelines have been introduced to guide professionals in how to determine the best exercise intervention.
According to Hayes, Newton et al.:
While for the majority, multimodal, moderate to high intensity exercise will be appropriate,
there is no set prescription and total weekly dosage that would be considered evidence-based for all
cancer patients. Targeted exercise prescription, which includes the provision of behaviour change advice
and support, is needed to ensure greatest benefit (as defined by the patient) in the short and longer term,
with low risk of harm.
The position statement below, released by Exercise and Sports Science Australia (ESSA) provides comprehensive insight into multiple cancers, their impact and complexities and how to determine the most effective exercise prescription. Further elaborating and providing insight on the proposed model:
Should you have additional research into Cancer and Exercise, or would be interested in further research in this area, please contact us at the Exercise is Medicine SA Community.
After all, Exercise never fails to prove that it IS Medicine!
