This section describes some of the numerous reasons why it is so important to exercise regularly after a diagnosis of cancer. Worldwide published evidence clearly demonstrates that regular exercise helps in three main areas:-

• Slows the rate of cancer progresses
• Reduces the risk of cancer coming back and improves cure

• Reduces the risk of developing further cancer
• Reduces the risks and side effects during cancer therapies
• Speeds up recovery after therapies

• Improves the physical function - body strength, body constitution.

• Reduces weight

• Lowers unwanted fat levels- cholesterol

• Improves psychological wellbeing - lowers anxiety, depression

• Increase the degree of self-empowerment for both the patients and carers who can also join in with the activity. 

• Creates an overall sense of wellbeing.

• Improves mood.

• Improves social integration and self esteem. 

In terms of prevention, for example, it has been estimated that being sedentary and overweight could account for 14% of male and 20% of female cancer deaths in the UK.  For bowel cancer, for example, most environmental studies have demonstrated a reduction in the order of 40–50% for those at the highest levels of physical activity, with many demonstrating a dose-response relationship. The Harvard Centre for Cancer Control, for example, estimates that at least 15% of colon cancers could have been prevented by 30 minutes daily exercise. These data suggest that increasing physical activity is one of the major factors that is amenable to modification by individuals wishing to reduce their risks of cancer.

The local gym is not the only option they have as far as exercising is concerned. You can exercise in many other ways

• at home

• in the office

• at work

• as a part of their social life (dance classes, exercise classes), etc.

Further general information Your doctors and specialist nurses are in an ideal position to give you relevant information on your disease and treatment as they know your individual circumstances. Cancerbackup has a help line (0808 800 1234) and a prize winning video available in English, Italian, Urdu, Bengali, Gujarati & Hindi explaining Radiotherapy & Chemotherapy. Cancernet.co.uk has over 500 pages describing cancer, its management, practical tips and tool which patients, their carers and their doctors have found helpful during the cancer journey.