THE World Health Organization (WHO) defines cancer as a large group of diseases that can affect almost any organ or tissue of the body, which leads to abnormal and uncontrollable growth in cells that extends beyond their usual perimeter to invade adjoining tissue and/or spread to other organs. This process is known as metastasising and is the major cause of death from cancer.

Cancer is the second-leading cause of death globally, accounting for an estimated 9.6 million deaths, or one in six deaths, in 2018. Cancer continues to exert a tremendous physical, emotional and financial burden on individuals, communities and health systems. In developed countries where the health systems are robust, the survival rates from various types of cancers are improving, thanks in large part to accessible early detection, quality treatment, and survivorship care. In Jamaica, where our resources are significantly less, there is a need for greater focus on the use of physical activity and exercise engagement in the treatment and recovery of patients.

Chemotherapy and its side effects

Cancer treatment for many patients involves chemotherapy, which uses drugs to target rapidly dividing cells throughout the body. It kills cancer cells but it also damages healthy cells, leading to a side effect known as chemo fatigue which causes extreme tiredness, lack of energy, depression and anxiety. This consistent treatment leads to deconditioning, which is the loss of physical fitness and functional capacity due to inactivity or prolonged bed rest. As a consequence, patients suffer from decreased cardiovascular fitness, muscle loss, increased risk of falls, and mental issues.

Physical activity engagement and its benefits

Physical activity is the perfect medicine to combat chemo fatigue and address the deconditioning that usually occurs before, during, and after treatment. Before engaging in any form of physical activity it is important to consult with your oncologist to ascertain if it is safe to do so. Cancer patients should start slowly and gradually increase the intensity of their engagement. There must be a focus on low- to moderate-intensity aerobic activity such as walking, swimming, cycling or dancing, and gentle stretching in your workout to improve cardiovascular function and improve mobility. As your energy levels increase, the duration of your exercise sessions should increase as well. Be guided by the WHO guideline of at least 150 minutes, which equates to 30 minutes daily, five days per week. To regain muscle strength, resistance exercises that involve all major muscle groups must be done — body weight squats, wall push-ups, lunges and planks are great to restore functional strength. As you get stronger, incorporate light weights and/or use resistance bands in your strength training routine at least two days per week.

Typically, a cancer diagnosis is perceived as a death sentence that leaves the patient with anxiety, depression and uncertainty. Including physical activity in the rehabilitation programme stimulates the release of endorphins — these are the body’s natural mood-boosters, which significantly reduce anxiety and stress in patients. Getting physically active is not just about recovery, it is essential for lifting your spirit and reclaiming control of your life. So, move your body and reclaim your peace of mind, one step at a time.

Michael Huggan is the regional physical activity specialist, Southern Regional Health Authority.