Health Tip: Exercise To Prevent and Treat Cancer

It’s well recognized that lifestyle factors are key in preventing cancer — quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, avoiding obesity — but did you know incorporating regular exercise has an impact as well?

Exercise reduces the risk of developing cancer by approximately 20% and decreases cancer mortality by about 20% as well.

Exercise oncologist Allison Betof, M.D. and Ph.D., shares some of the many ways exercise can function as a component of cancer treatment, including improving:

• Aerobic fitness
• Mental health
• Bone health
• Metabolic health
• Overall functionality

She notes open communication with an oncologist is important so patients and trainers have guidelines for modifications and safety precautions. And she stresses that exercise can have a multitude of benefits for patients undergoing treatment.

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