Exercise helps cancer treatment patients

Exercise helps cancer treatment patients

Breast and prostate cancer sufferers who frequently exercise during the course of and after treatment enjoy a better quality of life, according to the findings of US research.

A team at Henry Ford Hospital in Detroit found that cancer patients who engaged in regular exercise were less fatigued and in a better condition physically and mentally.

"Using exercise as an approach to cancer care has the potential to benefit patients both physically and psychologically, as well as mitigate treatment side effects," said Eleanor M Walker, the lead author of the study and director of breast services in the Department of Radiation Oncology at the hospital.

As a result of the positive findings, the hospital is continuing with a programme of exercise-based treatment for a number of patients.

Arlene Wilkie, director of research and policy at the Breast Cancer Campaign charity, said a low-fat diet can help reduce the risk of breast cancer.