Monday, April 23, 2012

Exercise Helps in the Fight Against Cancer

A cancer diagnosis can be overwhelming, both mentally and physically. People diagnosed with cancer immediately start thinking about the end of their life, what will happen to their loved ones, etc. However, a cancer diagnosis is not a death sentence. It is possible to survive. Research has proven that one of the most helpful ways to overcome cancer is through the power of a positive attitude. It takes mental and physical strength to remain strong in the face of this type of medical issue. The best way to do that is to continue an exercise regimen during treatment.

Many people exercise as a way to relax and forget about the stresses that they have in their lives. Most medical professionals will say that a big key to beating cancer is to stay calm and not worry about the future. Worrying about the disease and what may happen can weaken the immune system, which can actually strengthen the disease’s ability to take hold in the body. A good workout keeps the person immersed in the moment and focused completely on what they are doing. Another reason to continue exercising is a positive body image.

Chemotherapy and radiation treatments can affect the patient’s appearance and body image. The effects of the disease and their treatments for different types of cancer, depending on where it exists in the body or whether it is from a disease like mesothelioma, can affect the body in different ways.  According to the National Cancer Institute, exercise helps to improve body image and body composition. The article points out that breast cancer treatment, for example, tend to lead to significant weight gain. Exercise is a great way to control this problem and get the body back to a healthy state after the treatments. Recent data also indicates, although it is not conclusive, that exercise “improves progression-free and overall survival.”

The biggest benefit that exercise can bring, is allowing the patient to have a positive attitude. Continuing to exercise is a way of fighting back against the disease. It is the patient saying “cancer will not beat me!” The patient who can continue to exercise, no matter how tired they are or how badly they feel, is proving their mental strength. It takes a positive attitude to keep it going.

Exercise is an important aspect to defeating cancer. It can help relieve the stress of the disease and keep the patient relaxed. It can improve the patient’s body image and appearance. Exercise may even play a role in increasing survival odds after treatment. Most of all, exercise helps the patient to have a positive attitude. It is the best way for a patient to continue to fight, trying to strengthen the body while it is being attacked.  
Written by: David Haas

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