Breast cancer is a frightening reality for many women, as about 1 in every 8 will be diagnosed with the disease at some point in their lives. The good news is there’s one simple thing you can do to help improve your chances of survival and overall quality of life – exercise! Multiple studies have shown that physical activity can play a crucial role in the battle against breast cancer.
Exercise After Diagnosis
According to a study performed by the University of North Carolina, exercise after a breast cancer diagnosis can help mitigate the side effects of treatment, combat fatigue and depression, and even reduce the risk of recurrence. Furthermore, it has been shown to improve overall survival rates for those who engage in regular physical activity.
Unfortunately, the study also revealed that women are often exercising less after receiving their diagnosis. Out of the 1,735 women diagnosed with invasive breast cancer between 2008 and 2011, only 35% were found to be engaging in sufficient physical activity. Even more concerning, about 60% of breast cancer survivors were exercising less than prior to their diagnosis.
The Impact on African-American Women
A notable discrepancy in exercise habits was also observed in the study, with African-American women exercising even less than their white counterparts. This disparity is believed to be a contributing factor in the higher mortality rate for black women diagnosed with breast cancer.
As researcher Brionna Hair states, “Medical care providers should discuss the role physical activity plays in improving breast cancer outcomes with their patients, and strategies that may be successful in increasing physical activity among breast cancer patients need to be comprehensively evaluated and implemented.”
The Power of Exercise
Regardless of your age, weight, or when you start, exercise can reduce the risk of breast cancer by as much as 25%. What’s more, it doesn’t matter what type of exercise you choose to participate in, as long as you’re staying active. From walking and swimming to weightlifting and yoga, every bit of movement helps.
If you’re unsure of where to start, consider joining a local fitness class or hiring a personal trainer with experience working with breast cancer patients. This will ensure you’re engaging in safe, effective exercises that will help you combat the disease.
Other Benefits of Exercise
In addition to its powerful cancer-fighting properties, exercise offers a host of other health benefits, including:
- Improved cardiovascular health
- Better sleep quality
- Reduced stress and anxiety
- Stronger immune system
- Increased bone density
Simply put, there’s no downside to adding regular physical activity to your daily routine, whether you’re currently battling breast cancer or simply hoping to prevent it in the future.
A Balanced Approach
While exercise is undoubtedly an essential component of any healthy lifestyle, it’s important to remember that it’s just one part of a multifaceted approach to wellness. Eating a nutritious diet, managing stress, and attending regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are all critical to maintaining your overall health.
The American Cancer Society recommends consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, while avoiding processed foods and beverages high in added sugars. Additionally, limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding tobacco products are crucial to reducing your risk of cancer.
The Bottom Line
Exercise has the potential to be a game-changer in the fight against breast cancer. Whether you’re a survivor, currently undergoing treatment, or hoping to prevent the disease altogether, staying active is an incredibly important part of improving your odds. By committing to a consistent fitness routine, maintaining a balanced diet, and attending regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle breast cancer head-on.
