Physical activity may improve survival and quali...( have received bone marrow transplants ...)

Physical activity may improve survival and quality of life

have received bone marrow transplants give some proof that physical activity prevents weight gain after diagnosis. Two studies from Edmonton, Canada, show that the patients did not change weight, but that skin fold thickness was reduced, indicating a loss of fat.

Survival
As for the survival rate, very few studies have been made, but extrapolations of data from other studies support the hypothesis that breast cancer patients may survive longer if they are physically active.

"At least weight gain and obesity are linked to relapse. Obesity seems to be a problem for everything. As for hormones, obesity is linked to levels of oestrogen, insulin and insuline-like growth factor (IGF), as well as immune function and all sorts of problems", says Courneya.

"In a study on breast cancer survivors, we found improvements in a number of immune system components as a result of exercise, for example, an increase in natural killer (NK-cells) cytotoxic activity. We also found changes in insulin-like growth factor, he says.

Courneya believes several factors may be involved in extending the survival rate for breast cancer patients who are physically active. Immunological and several humoral factors may play a role. Sex steroid and metabolic hormones may also be involved, as well as hormonal changes caused by reduced weight.

Courneya advises cancer patients not to gain weight at all unless they are underweight to begin with: "There seems to be a linear relationship between health and weight gain. But one should not weigh too little either, a BMI of 20 24 is ideal. The greatest risk is for obese patients with a BMI above 30." He also recommends physical activity for overweight patients who cannot achieve weight loss. "Physical activity is an independent factor, reducing risk independently of weight," he says.

Research in the field of rehabilitation and lifestyle tends to lag behind studies on primary prevention. "In the n
'"/>

Contact: Hanna Hanes
hhaanes@online.no
Norwegian Cancer Society
4-Jul-2002

Page: 1 2 3
Related medicine news :

1. Physical activity linked to protection from Parkinsons disease
2. Study: Physical activity in middle age cuts risk of early death
3. Physical inactivity costs millions in health care expenses
4. Physically fit children appear to do better in classroom, researchers say
5. Physical symptoms of depression may be misdiagnosed
6. Physical activity in later years helps women preserve functional abilities
7. Physical activity key to maintaining independence say University of Pittsburgh researchers
8. Physical, mental health illnesses hinder low-income families economic security
9. Physical activity is key to maintaining normal weight after weight loss
10. Physical exercise improves cancer patients health
11. Physical fitness isnt the only activity to help prolong survival in older people

Post Your Comments: