Exercise plays a significant role in breast cancer. Physical activity is an accessible tool. Research continues to uncover how regular movement can influence various aspects of this disease. Integrating exercise into health strategies is important.
Reducing Breast Cancer Risk Through Physical Activity
Regular physical activity can decrease the risk of developing breast cancer. It helps maintain a healthy body weight. Excess body fat, especially in postmenopausal women, increases breast cancer risk because fat cells store high levels of estrogen, a known factor in cancer development.
Exercise also influences hormone levels directly. It can help regulate sex hormones like estrogen and increase sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), which binds to hormones and reduces their active levels in the body. Physical activity also improves insulin sensitivity, meaning the body’s cells respond more effectively to insulin. High insulin levels and insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) are associated with an increased risk of breast cancer.
Beyond hormonal and metabolic effects, physical activity supports a stronger immune system. It also helps regulate inflammatory processes within the body, which can contribute to cancer development when chronic. Consistent engagement in physical activity, such as at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity weekly, is recommended to achieve these preventative benefits.
Exercise During Breast Cancer Treatment
Engaging in physical activity during breast cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation, surgery, or hormone therapy, offers numerous benefits. Exercise helps manage common side effects that often arise from these treatments. Fatigue, a prevalent symptom, can be reduced through structured physical activity.
Physical activity can also alleviate other treatment-related issues like nausea, pain, and the swelling known as lymphedema. Maintaining physical function, such as cardiorespiratory fitness and muscular strength, is also supported by exercise during this challenging period. Exercise has been shown to improve mood and overall quality of life for individuals undergoing treatment. Medical clearance from a healthcare professional and, ideally, supervision from an exercise specialist familiar with oncology, are necessary before starting or continuing an exercise program during treatment.
Physical Activity for Breast Cancer Survivors
For breast cancer survivors, physical activity plays a substantial role in long-term recovery and overall well-being. Regular exercise can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. It helps survivors manage long-term side effects that may persist after treatment, such as neuropathy or bone density loss and joint pain often associated with hormone therapy.
Maintaining a healthy weight through physical activity is also important for survivors, as it can further reduce the risk of recurrence and manage other health concerns. Exercise can also improve body image, which may be impacted by treatment-related changes. Additionally, physical activity contributes positively to mental health, helping survivors cope with the emotional challenges that can arise post-treatment.
Guidelines for Safe and Effective Exercise
Incorporating exercise safely and effectively requires thoughtful consideration, whether for prevention or during different stages of the breast cancer journey. A combination of aerobic activities, strength training, and flexibility exercises is generally beneficial. Aerobic activities might include brisk walking, cycling, or swimming, while strength training can involve bodyweight exercises or resistance bands.
Starting slowly and gradually increasing the duration, frequency, and intensity of activity is advisable to allow the body to adapt. Listening to one’s body and adjusting activity levels based on how one feels is important. Consulting with healthcare professionals, such as doctors or oncology-certified exercise physiologists, is strongly recommended for personalized guidance. These specialists can help tailor an exercise plan that considers individual health status, treatment history, and any specific limitations, ensuring the exercise program is both safe and effective.