This guest post is by Jackie Clark, featured author with the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance.
A cancer diagnosis is one of the most frightening things a person could ever experience. The stress, depression, and side effects from cancer treatment would not likely be the time most of us would think about beginning an exercise program. However, recent research indicates that regular exercise is highly beneficial to both cancer patients and cancer survivors.
If already on an exercise plan at the time of a cancer diagnosis the best thing to do is to continue with regular exercise. While some modification may be necessary in times of very low energy, pain, or recovery from surgery, evidence shows that staying the course with an exercise regime is very beneficial.
If, at the time of cancer diagnosis, one is not already engaging in regular physical activity, it is time to begin – and the sooner the better. One should check with their physician first and then, as with any new exercise plan, begin slowly. Begin by walking or riding a stationary bike for 10 minutes and gradually increase the time until activity is maintained for 30 minutes. Swimming or simply walking in a pool is a very gentle and soothing form of exercise. Various kinds of seated exercise machines found at health clubs could be a good choice for those with balance problems. Your physician may advise that your immune system is weak due to the type of cancer treatment you are receiving. If so, a health club or other public facility will not be a good choice for exercise.
Why worry about exercise on top of dealing with a cancer diagnosis and treatment? The answer is simple – it could help save your life or increase survival time. If you are a cancer survivor already, a regular exercise program will help diminish the odds of the cancer returning. Regular exercise can serve to boost your immune system, a big deal for anyone battling cancer. Regular exercise will also help with anxiety, and depression and improve sleeping habits. Anxiety, depression and insufficient sleep could deplete the immune system making you more suceptable to illness.
Even doctors who treat mesothelioma, a very serious form of lung cancer caused by exposure to asbestos, are beginning to understand the importance of exercise in the long-term survivability of their patients. Recent data collection shows that these cancer patients may well be surviving longer if they exercise. Doctors treating mesothelioma patients are beginning to prescribe regular exercise regimens to their patients soon after prognosis.
Jackie Clark is a personal fitness enthusiast and featured author with the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance. Read more by Jackie Clark at http://www.mesothelioma.com/blog/authors/jackie/.
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