Breast cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. The diagnosis and treatment of breast cancer can be an overwhelming experience for patients. One of the essential aspects of breast cancer care is exercise.

Exercise may seem counterintuitive, especially when patients are undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. But staying active has several benefits for both physical and mental health during and after breast cancer treatment.

1. Improved Physical Function

Exercise has been proven to improve physical function and reduce symptoms such as fatigue and weakness in cancer patients.

Many patients who undergo breast cancer treatments such as chemotherapy can experience a significant decrease in physical activity levels. Regular exercise can help to offset this by maintaining or improving physical function.

2. Maintaining Healthy Body Weight

Exercise can help maintain a healthy body weight before, during and after cancer treatment. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of cancer recurrence and other health problems.

Exercise helps to reduce the excess fat and build more lean muscle, therefore leading to an overall healthier body composition.

3. Reducing Risk of Lymphedema

Lymphedema can occur in breast cancer patients who have had lymph nodes removed or radiation therapy. This condition involves swelling and fluid buildup in the arm, hand, or breast area.

Exercise can help reduce the risk of lymphedema by promoting the flow of lymph fluid through the lymphatic system.

4. Improved Mental Health

Exercise has been linked with a reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety in cancer patients. It can be particularly beneficial for breast cancer patients who may be experiencing mood changes as a result of medication or hormonal changes.

Exercise releases endorphins in the brain, which can improve mood and overall well-being.

5. Improved Quality of Life

Regular exercise can lead to an overall improvement in quality of life for breast cancer patients. It can improve levels of energy, sleep quality, and reduce pain and fatigue.

Exercise also helps patients to regain a sense of control over their bodies, which can be lost during cancer treatment.

6. Promotes Healthy Bones

Breast cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and hormone therapy can lead to a loss of bone density.

Regular weight-bearing exercise, such as walking or weight-lifting, can help to maintain and improve bone density, which is essential for overall health.

7. Reduced Inflammation

Exercise can help to reduce inflammation in the body, which is linked to cancer risk and other health problems. Studies have shown that a regular exercise program can lower markers of inflammation in breast cancer patients.

8. Lowered Risk of Recurrence

Studies have shown that regular exercise can lower the risk of cancer recurrence in breast cancer patients.

Exercise has been linked with a reduction in inflammation and insulin resistance, which are both factors that can increase the risk of cancer recurrence.

Exercise can be a social activity for breast cancer patients, providing an opportunity to connect with others who are going through similar experiences.

Joining a exercise group tailored to cancer patients is an excellent way to gain support and motivation while also staying active.

10. Reducing Risk of Other Health Problems

Exercise has been linked with reducing the risk of many other health problems, including cardiovascular disease and diabetes.

By maintaining an active lifestyle during and after cancer treatment, breast cancer patients can improve their overall health and reduce the risk of other chronic health problems.

Conclusion

Exercise is an essential part of breast cancer care, offering many benefits for physical and mental health.

Patients should try to maintain an active lifestyle, even during cancer treatment, to offset the negative side effects of treatment and improve overall health and well-being. Exercise can be a powerful tool in reducing cancer recurrence, improving physical function, maintaining a healthy weight, and providing social support to breast cancer patients.