Breast Cancer Awareness Month 2023: Know The Role Of Exercise And Physical Activity For Breast Cancer Patients

Beyond its traditional benefits in improving physical fitness, exercise has emerged as a crucial ally in the fight against breast cancer, contributing to physical and emotional well-being of patients.

Role Of Exercise For Breast Cancer Patients ( Image Source :Getty )

The role of exercise in breast cancer treatment represents a pivotal and increasingly recognised aspect of holistic care for individuals facing this challenging health issue. Beyond its traditional benefits in improving physical fitness, exercise has emerged as a crucial ally in the fight against breast cancer, contributing to both the physical and emotional well-being of patients. In this article we will discuss the importance of exercise and yoga in managing breast cancer.

Role Of Exercise In Managing Breast Cancer:

Dr Annu Prasad, who is an Ayurvedic consultant at Birla Ayurveda mentioned that regular exercise helps lower physical and mental stress while raising oxygen levels in the body.

• Exercise before, during, and after receiving radiation, hormonal, and targeted therapies, as well as before, during, and after undergoing chemotherapy and surgery.
• There is no doubt that being overweight or obese increases the chance of acquiring numerous cancers, including breast cancer in postmenopausal women. Immune system activity, inflammation, and oestrogen and IGF-1 levels are thought to have a role in the relationship between obesity and breast cancer. 
• Regaining or improving physical functions, aerobic capacity, strength, flexibility, body image, body composition, quality of life, the capacity to physically and psychologically withstand any current and/or future cancer treatments, and the capacity to withstand anxiety due to living with a current or recurrent disease are all indications for exercise treatment in this patient population. Additionally, signs include a decrease in cancer treatment's long-term and late effects and a probable delay in any recurrence or progress of the disease.
• Pilates exercises enhance physical stamina, flexibility, and postural control, and in industrialised nations, women frequently accept them as a kind of exercise. Pilates workouts significantly improve functional ability, fatigue, flexibility, and quality of life in females with breast cancer when compared to the control group, according to a randomised clinical investigation.

Yoga Poses That Can Help:

Yoga may be calming and rejuvenating. Yoga is another form of contemplative exercise that breast cancer patients can benefit from because it incorporates breathing, posture, flexibility, and core strength exercises. A research on breast cancer patients was published in 2013 and found that weekly Yoga therapy enhanced physical function.

Several cancer-related yoga poses suggested by Dr Annu Prasad that can be practised are:

1- Balasana 

2- Pranayam 

3- Uttanasan 

4- Viparita Karani 

5- Savasana

Physical Activity Required For Breast Cancer Patients:

 

Chitharesh Natesan who is a fitness enthusiast said, "The importance of exercise in the journey of breast cancer cannot be emphasised enough. Exercise emerges as a potent ally in the fight against breast cancer, offering hope and tangible advantages. Tailoured to individual abilities, physical activity stands as a fundamental element of breast cancer management, bolstering strength, mitigating the adverse effects of treatments, and improving overall quality of life. Through exercise, patients can combat the fatigue and weakness commonly accompanying chemotherapy and radiation, providing a robust remedy for the emotional strain that this illness imposes, nurturing a positive outlook, and reducing stress. In addition, exercise contributes to weight control, a pivotal factor in diminishing the chances of breast cancer recurrence. It also enhances cardiovascular health, a notable concern for breast cancer survivors. For those with breast cancer, exercise is typically safe during treatment, encompassing chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and surgery."

Yash Agarwal who is the Founder of Yash Fitness shared the following tips related to physical activity for breast cancer patients:

• Consult with your healthcare team: Always seek medical advice before starting any exercise regimen.
• Gradual progression: Begin with low-intensity activities and slowly increase intensity over time.
• Aerobic exercises: Engage in activities like walking, swimming, or cycling to improve cardiovascular health.
• Strength training: Incorporate weight lifting or resistance band exercises to build muscle and bone strength.
• Flexibility exercises: Practice stretching to maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness.
• Balance exercises: Enhance stability with yoga or tai chi to reduce the risk of falls.
• Frequency: Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise per week.
• Intensity: Exercise at a level that raises your heart rate but allows you to hold a conversation.
• Rest days: Include rest days to allow your body to recover and prevent overexertion.
• Warm-up and cool-down: Always start with a warm-up and finish with a cool-down to prevent injury.
• Posture awareness: Focus on maintaining good posture during exercises to avoid strain.
• Target different muscle groups: Ensure a balanced workout by targeting various muscle groups.
• Pain management: Communicate any discomfort to your healthcare provider to adjust your exercise routine.
• Monitoring vital signs: Keep an eye on heart rate and blood pressure during exercise.
• Bone health: Weight-bearing exercises like walking can help improve bone density.
• Lymphedema precautions: If you have lymphedema, wear compression garments and avoid strenuous activities.
• Fatigue management: Exercise can combat cancer-related fatigue but adjust intensity based on energy levels.
• Nutritional support: Maintain a balanced diet to support your physical activity.
• Hydration: Stay well-hydrated, especially during exercise.
• Sleep: Prioritize good sleep hygiene for recovery.
• Avoid excessive sun exposure: Protect your skin during outdoor activities to prevent skin damage.

[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]