When a woman is diagnosed with breast cancer, it can be an extremely difficult and stressful time. One of the most important factors in successful breast cancer treatment is early detection.

But once a woman receives a diagnosis, she may wonder what else she can do to help improve her chances of survival.

The Benefits of Walking for Breast Cancer Patients

One simple thing that women can do to help improve their chances of surviving breast cancer is to walk. Walking is a low-impact exercise that can help improve cardiovascular health, boost the immune system, and strengthen bones.

Walking can also help reduce stress and anxiety.

Recent studies have suggested that walking regularly can also help improve breast cancer survival rates.

A study conducted by researchers from the University of California, San Francisco and Harvard University found that women who regularly walked after being diagnosed with breast cancer had a 45% lower risk of death from the disease than women who were inactive.

The study followed 1,500 women with breast cancer over a period of 10 years. The women were asked about their physical activity levels before and after their diagnosis.

The researchers found that women who walked briskly for three to five hours per week had the best survival rates. Even women who walked at a slower pace for one to three hours per week still had better survival rates than women who were inactive.

Why Does Walking Help Improve Breast Cancer Survival Rates?

There are several reasons why walking may help improve breast cancer survival rates. Walking helps improve cardiovascular health, which can help reduce the risk of heart disease – a common cause of death among breast cancer survivors.

Walking can also help reduce inflammation throughout the body, which is thought to play a role in the growth and spread of cancer cells. Walking can also help reduce levels of insulin-like growth factors in the body, which are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.

Walking can also help reduce stress and anxiety, which are common side effects of breast cancer treatment. Stress and anxiety can weaken the immune system, making it harder for the body to fight off the cancer.

By reducing stress and anxiety, walking can help strengthen the immune system and improve overall health.

How Much Walking is Enough?

The study conducted by the University of California and Harvard University found that women who walked briskly for three to five hours per week had the best survival rates.

However, even women who walked at a slower pace for one to three hours per week still had better survival rates than women who were inactive. The key is to get up and move regularly.

For breast cancer patients who are undergoing treatment, it may be difficult to walk for long periods of time. However, even short bouts of activity throughout the day can help.

Try taking short walks around the house or office, or using a stationary bike or elliptical machine for a few minutes at a time.

It’s important for breast cancer patients to talk to their doctor before starting any new exercise program. Your doctor can help you determine what level of exercise is safe and appropriate for your individual needs and condition.

Other Benefits of Exercise for Breast Cancer Patients

Exercise offers many benefits for breast cancer patients beyond improving survival rates. Exercise can help improve overall physical and mental health, reduce stress and anxiety, and relieve fatigue – a common side effect of breast cancer treatment.

Exercise can also help improve body image and self-esteem during and after treatment, helping women feel more positive about their bodies and themselves.

In Conclusion

Walking can be a simple and effective way for breast cancer patients to improve their chances of survival. By getting up and moving regularly, women can help improve overall health, reduce stress and anxiety, and boost their immune systems.

Walking can also be a great way to improve mental and emotional well-being during and after breast cancer treatment. Talk to your doctor to determine what level of exercise is safe and appropriate for your individual needs and condition.