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SPECIAL EVENT! Get Moving: Exercise's Role in Preventing Cancer
Take time from your hectic summer schedule to join Holy Redeemer for a relaxing evening with a light dinner conversation with Pallav Mehta, M.D., Holy Redeemer oncologist, for an informative discussion on the role that exercise can play in cancer prevention, as well as for cancer patients.
July 8, 2009 from 6pm - 7:30pm at The Carriage House, Tamanend Park 1255 2nd Street Pike Southampton, PA 18966. Cost is $10.
Registration is required. To register, please visit our Classes/Events page or call 1-800-818-4747.
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Pallav Mehta, M.D., an oncologist at Holy Redeemer Hospital, says that few words can inspire more profound emotions than “You have cancer.” But after recovering from the shock, Dr. Mehta says, there are several proactive steps cancer patients can take to gain some control over their health, including regular exercise.
“The general mentality used to be that cancer patients should get more rest, but new information suggests that exercise helps people better tolerate their oncology treatments,” says Dr. Mehta. He continues: “It also can play a role in prevention. For example, estrogen is the driving force behind many breast cancers, and fat tissue harbors estrogen, so staying trim may help prevent the disease.”
According to the American Cancer Society, moderate exercise benefits cancer patients by:
- Preventing muscle wasting
- Reducing the side effects of treatment
- Improving fitness
- Improving quality of life
Of course, Dr. Mehta stresses, there is no one-size-fits-all exercise program for people with cancer. The type of cancer and treatment regimen, along with the individual’s stamina, strength, and fitness level, all contribute to a person’s ability to exercise. It is critical to tailor a fitness plan to an individual’s specific needs and status.
“With proper guidance, physical activity can be one of the many pieces that help cancer patients reclaim their lives,” says Dr. Mehta. “It’s a great way to feel better and become vigilant about your recovery.”
Tips for a well-rounded workout
Dr. Mehta offers these exercise tips for cancer patients:
- Before starting any physical activity, receive clearance from your surgical oncologist, radiation oncologist, and medical oncologist. Surgery or other treatments may affect your exercise routine. For example, breast cancer patients who have had multiple lymph nodes removed from their arm may experience decreased range of motion, and skin that has been radiated may become irritated by the chlorine in swimming pools.
- If appropriate, include both resistance training (to improve muscle strength) and aerobic exercise (to improve cardiovascular fitness) in your workouts.
- Every little bit helps, even if you can exercise for only five minutes a day.
- Stay hydrated and warm up for five to 10 minutes prior to exercise.
- If possible, seek the advice of a trainer who is certified in working with cancer patients.
- Listen to your body. Don’t exercise if you are exhausted or have a fever.
- For motivation, ask a friend to join you during exercise.
- Make exercise a lifelong trend, even after oncology treatments end.
For help finding a Holy Redeemer oncologist, please call 1-800-818-4747 or visit our Find A Physician section
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