Exercise for Cancer Patients

Essay # 64656

Medical and Health > Medical Studies
Medical and Health > Nutrition and Exercise
Nutrition > Exercise

This paper discusses the benefits of an exercise program for cancer patients, especially post-radiation rehabilitation.

2,450 words () | 3 sources | APA | 2005 United States

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the use of exercise as prevention and as treatment augmentation to accepted treatments for different types and stages of cancer. The author points out that overwhelming fatigue is common to all types of cancer; however, cancer patients benefit from an appropriate exercise program, which provides positive reinforcement not only to increase strength but also to fight depression. The paper relates that physical fitness and exercise level assessment can be used to evaluate if a patient has the strength to undergo cancer therapy.

From the Paper:

"As individuals age biologically in primary aging patterns, there is a marked decrease in muscular and cardiovascular fitness and they may be at more risk for cancer. These individuals may be more at risk for a serious health risk after falling, or of falling, as they are not as well-balanced and fit as they once were. A regular program of exercise
can change this pattern. Specifically, cancer patients may wish to engage in weight-bearing activities to increase their bone strength so that if they fall, they will be less likely to have a fracture. Tai chi is one form of low-impact exercise that promotes cardiovascular health and balance; cancer patients may also exercise and increase bone
strength by walking, and thus improve their physical selves."