Your Secret Weapon During Cancer Treatment

Kansas State researchers show moderate exercise enhances the effectiveness of cancer treatments by oxygenating tumors. By Cord Prettyman, MPT.

By Cord Prettyman, MPT

Kansas State University researchers claim that moderate exercise may make cancer treatments more effective. Brad Behnke, associate professor of exercise physiology, has demonstrated that moderate exercise on a regular basis enhances the flow of oxygen to cancerous tumors. This tumor oxygenation helps destroy cancer cells, which the researchers believe will enhance treatments for cancer patients.

According to Behnke, when a tumor has low oxygen, it is often very aggressive. Hypoxic tumors tend to be resistant to traditional cancer therapies such as radiation. "If we can increase the efficacy of radiation treatment, then the patient's prognosis is enhanced," says Behnke. "Exercise is a type of therapy that benefits multiple systems in the body and may permanently alter the environment within the tumor."

The experts at the Mayo Clinic agree, calling exercise "your secret weapon during cancer treatment" – improving not just your physical well-being but your attitude as well. Sara Mansfield, M.S., a certified cancer exercise trainer at Mayo Clinic, says physical activity can help people before, during and after cancer treatment. "Loving family members may be urging a person with a cancer diagnosis to rest," she says, "but that can lead to a functional decline. Research tells us, in general, it's better to move more than less."

Mansfield recommends that any person with cancer first discuss an exercise program with their health care provider. Once you've got the green light, start moving. If you've been sedentary, start by simply walking. Myriad research studies support exercise during cancer treatment with documented benefits of reduced depression and anxiety, reduced pain, and increased energy and strength.

The key is that exercise be moderate. Too little may have no effect; too much may impair blood flow to the tumor or the immune system. Moderate exercise employs 30 to 60 percent of your aerobic capacity. Using age-predicted heart rate, the formula is 220 minus your age, multiplied by 30–60 percent. For most people, a brisk walk or slow jog achieves this. The American Cancer Society recommends 30 to 60 minutes at least 5 days a week.

Start slowly. If you're in treatment or a sedentary survivor, begin with ten minutes at 30 percent of your target heart rate. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Park at the far end of the lot. Buy a pedometer and add steps in small increments. The K-State research tells us you can increase the efficacy of your cancer treatment by simply moving.

To those who are battling the beast and those who are cancer survivors, the message is clear – get moving!

Cord Prettyman is an American Council on Exercise Certified Personal Trainer with 32 years of experience. He can be reached through the Montana Athletic Club at 406-837-2582.