There is clear evidence that physical activity is a safe and effective means to prevent cancer as well as mitigate disease and treatment-related side effects in both patients and survivors.1,2 With many cancer patients and survivors reliant on advice from physicians and other health professionals, it is essential that health care providers, patients and survivors are aware of the physical and psychosocial benefits of physical activity. While much of the research with respect to physical activity and cancer care has focused on structured exercise protocols, it is important to note that both increased general physical activity and structured exercise confer health benefits for the public, cancer patients, and survivors.

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references:

1. Phillips SM, Alfano CM, Perna FM, Glasgow RE. Accelerating translation of physical activity and cancer survivorship research into practice: Recommendations for a more integrated and collaborative approach. Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev. 2014; 23(5): 687-699.

2. Schmitz KH, Courneya KS, Matthews CE, Demark-Wahnefried W, Galvao DA, Pinto BM, et al. American College of Sports Medicine roundtable on exercise guidelines for cancer survivors. Med Sci Sports Exerc. 2010; 42: 1409-1426.

Every day researchers are learning more about the health benefits of mind-body techniques like yoga. One of the major concerns that cancer survivors may experience long after treatment is over is lack of energy and fatigue. When studied with a group of breast cancer survivors, those who used yoga had a decrease in blood pressure and heart rate, improved energy levels and mood. 

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