Just small amounts of exercise could make a difference
Physical activity after a breast cancer diagnosis has been linked to a longer and more qualitative life, but most patients aren’t doing enough.
The new research found that but most participants in a large breast cancer study did not meet national physical activity guidelines after they were diagnosed. Moreover, African-American women were less likely to meet the guidelines than white women.
The findings, published in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society, indicate that efforts to promote physical activity in breast cancer patients may need to be significantly enhanced.
Caroline Dalton, Senior Policy Officer at Breakthrough Breast Cancer, said: “Physical activity after a breast cancer diagnosis has been shown to improve a patient's chances of survival and there is also some evidence that it may help to reduce the risk of breast cancer returning. Keeping active may also help patients cope, both during and after treatment, by improving general health and wellbeing.
“Although this study was conducted in America rather than the UK, the results suggest that women who have received a breast cancer diagnosis need better support to keep active. Breakthrough Breast Cancer’s physical activity tool, BRISK, can help women with suggestions for activities to try.
“There are no specific guidelines in place at the moment to tell us precisely how much physical activity is needed after a breast cancer diagnosis, but Breakthrough Breast Cancer suggests aiming for 3.5 hours per week, after checking with your treatment team to see what is appropriate for you.”
Tagged in Breast Cancer Health