Recently I made the e-acquaintance of David Haas, a cancer patient advocate for the Mesothelioma Cancer Alliance. He researches and writes for the betterment of cancer patients around the
United States with a particular focus on Mesothelioma, a lung-related cancer of the mesothelial tissue associated with exposure to asbestos. As an example of the disease that many of you probably already have familiarity with, large numbers of the 9/11 first responders are suffering now from mesothelioma.
David reached out to me to ask whether I ever have guest bloggers. I was flabbergasted, having never considered such a thing. I was just grateful to have readers to tell you the truth. But with a readership now extending well into the 400s via various subscription options, it seemed like a wonderful time to form some alliances within the cancer community so that we can join forces in the fight against all cancers.
So I am delighted to introduce David Haas and my first guest poster ever. His topic is not only on point for cancer patients, but surely right in line with some of the goals of the DFMC running team.
Thank you David for reaching out and for so kindly allowing me to post this article here.
You will find David at http://about.me/haasblaag.
Exercise - A
Proven Weapon Against Cancer (David Haas)
Cancer patients are true warriors; however, fighting this disease can feel like a long and treacherous uphill battle. Fortunately, with exercise in the weapons arsenal, the battle becomes a little easier.
Whether a victim is facing a recent cancer diagnosis, aggressive treatments, or a time of remission, exercise can help. Physical activity keeps the body strong, healthy, and primed for the fight.
When a patient first learns they have cancer, most feel helpless. As they deal with painful symptoms and debilitating side effects, many lose their sense of control. However, engaging in physical activity provides a healthy change and encourages a positive outlook.
Increased Energy Levels
Numerous studies have shown that exercise boosts energy levels and increases stamina. This is extremely beneficial for patients undergoing aggressive cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Cancer treatment is notoriously rigorous, causing extreme fatigue and often making cancer patients sicker than the disease itself.
Exercise helps to combat the treatment battle by building muscle, strengthening joints and bones, improving heart and lung functions, and boosting the immune system. Not only are active patients more energetic, but they also enjoy elevated moods. This greatly improves their outlook, helping them cope better through treatments and recovery.
Improved Survival Rates
Some studies indicate that physical activity may improve survival rates for people with certain types of cancer. For example, a study published in the "Journal of Clinical Oncology” found that prostate cancer patients who engaged in physical exercise enjoyed reduced mortality rates from any cause. And for cancer survivors who have beaten their illness, exercise can prevent the disease from returning.
Enhanced Lifestyles
Any cancer patient who adds exercise to their daily routine will most likely find that it improves their general well-being and quality of life. Not only does exercise have an impact on cancer, but it also reduces the risk of other chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and mental depression. Because it releases serotonin and endorphins, “feel good” chemicals in the brain, exercise produces a feeling of emotional well-being, too.
Most cancer patients can include some form of physical activity into their daily routines. While those going through mesothelioma treatment cannot work out vigorously due to decreased lung functions, they may be able to engage in short walks, gentle stretches, or physical therapy. Breast cancer survivors cannot lift weights or do arm exercises immediately following surgery, but they can do gentle stretching, yoga, and Pilates.
Small steps are a good start for cancer patients, especially if they were sedentary before diagnosis. And even small fitness efforts go a long way toward surviving treatment and winning the battle with cancer.
Cancer patients are true warriors; however, fighting this disease can feel like a long and treacherous uphill battle. Fortunately, with exercise in the weapons arsenal, the battle becomes a little easier.
Whether a victim is facing a recent cancer diagnosis, aggressive treatments, or a time of remission, exercise can help. Physical activity keeps the body strong, healthy, and primed for the fight.
When a patient first learns they have cancer, most feel helpless. As they deal with painful symptoms and debilitating side effects, many lose their sense of control. However, engaging in physical activity provides a healthy change and encourages a positive outlook.
Increased Energy Levels
Numerous studies have shown that exercise boosts energy levels and increases stamina. This is extremely beneficial for patients undergoing aggressive cancer treatments like chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Cancer treatment is notoriously rigorous, causing extreme fatigue and often making cancer patients sicker than the disease itself.
Exercise helps to combat the treatment battle by building muscle, strengthening joints and bones, improving heart and lung functions, and boosting the immune system. Not only are active patients more energetic, but they also enjoy elevated moods. This greatly improves their outlook, helping them cope better through treatments and recovery.
Improved Survival Rates
Some studies indicate that physical activity may improve survival rates for people with certain types of cancer. For example, a study published in the "Journal of Clinical Oncology” found that prostate cancer patients who engaged in physical exercise enjoyed reduced mortality rates from any cause. And for cancer survivors who have beaten their illness, exercise can prevent the disease from returning.
Enhanced Lifestyles
Any cancer patient who adds exercise to their daily routine will most likely find that it improves their general well-being and quality of life. Not only does exercise have an impact on cancer, but it also reduces the risk of other chronic illnesses, such as heart disease, diabetes, osteoporosis, and mental depression. Because it releases serotonin and endorphins, “feel good” chemicals in the brain, exercise produces a feeling of emotional well-being, too.
Most cancer patients can include some form of physical activity into their daily routines. While those going through mesothelioma treatment cannot work out vigorously due to decreased lung functions, they may be able to engage in short walks, gentle stretches, or physical therapy. Breast cancer survivors cannot lift weights or do arm exercises immediately following surgery, but they can do gentle stretching, yoga, and Pilates.
Small steps are a good start for cancer patients, especially if they were sedentary before diagnosis. And even small fitness efforts go a long way toward surviving treatment and winning the battle with cancer.
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