Exercise and sports as additional cancer prevention and cure
Active pre- and aftercare, strengthening the immune system and vitality
Sporting activities stimulate the cardiovascular system, improve all metabolic functions, keep joints and muscles in motion, promote relaxation and inner harmony, and stimulate the immune system. Suitable sports in the aftercare of cancer are functional and water aerobics, dance, all ball sports and golf and tennis. There is a direct correlation between the amount of exercise and the anti-cancer effect: the more exercise, the greater the effect. Nevertheless, beware of overloading, it is necessary to design a moderate training program, tailored to the individual capabilities of the patient. So far, a combined strength and endurance training has proven to be particularly advantageous, with additional elements for training flexibility and coordination.
Research confirms the effectiveness of sport against cancer and its concomitants
In breast cancer patients, for example, six hours of recreational sport per week reduced the risk of relapse by 23%. Increased physical activity also counteracts the chronic fatigue syndrome and depressive moods. In addition, physical fitness and quality of life are increased compared to control groups. As a tumor-specific effect, sport has an influence on sex hormones, antioxidant effects or an improvement of DNA repair mechanisms, as well as the reduction of insulin and endogenous messengers (eg IGF, interleukin, TNF). There are also other mechanisms that are crucial for certain types of cancer: For example, stimulating the metabolism shortens the contact time of possible carcinogenic substances in the stomach and intestine.
The Alpstein Clinic team will support and coordinate projects on “Sport in Cancer” in the future
The benefits of physical activity for cancer prevention and care is an integral part of our holistic advice. Through our own programs as well as the cooperation with physical therapy practices and fitness centers in the area, we will support these important activities in our clinic in the future.
Conclusion
Sporting activities for the prevention and aftercare of cancer as fitness, endurance or weight training makes sense and should be part of a holistic concept.
Notes for Reading
- Book: «Say´ YES to LIFE» from U. Reuter, R. Oettmeier and J. Vizkelety, chapter «Physical activity and exercise», 2019
- Mock, V.: Fatigue and Quality of Life Outcomes of Exercise During Cancer Treatment
- Galvao, D.A. and Newton, R.U.: Review of Exercise Intervention Studies in Cancer Patients