Exercise Helps the Recovery of Breast Cancer Survivors

A woman’s post-operative state of mind and level of activity can hurt or help her cancer recovery.

Elkhart, Ind. November 4, 2005 -- According to the National Cancer Institute, over 4,200 women in Indiana are diagnosed with breast cancer annually. On average, 115 of them live in Elkhart County. Given these frightening statistics, it is important for the families within our local community to be aware that in the fight against breast cancer, a woman’s post-operative state of mind and level of activity can hurt or help her recovery.

According to data from a study conducted at Penn State University, exercise after chemotherapy for breast cancer boosted the activity of infection-fighting T cells in women who worked out regularly. The University findings indicate that exercise can help restore immune systems damaged by anti-cancer drugs, which destroy healthy as well as malignant cells. Test results showed improvements in various physical functions, such as endurance, upper-body strength, and volume of oxygen intake. Cancer survivors that exercised also scored higher on overall quality of life, social well being, and fatigue levels than the non-exercisers. Another study conducted in a similar population by Canadian researchers and published in the April 2005 issue of the Journal of Applied Physiology, also found that exercisers had a greater percentage of activated T cells.

The Physical and Emotional Recovery Program for Breast Cancer Survivors is a program that focuses on helping participants gain or regain a level of emotional and physical fitness that enhances their overall lifestyle. The program helps individuals and/or couples cope with the initial cancer diagnosis, walks them through the recovery process, and tackles the issues of adjuvant therapy – radiation, chemotherapy and/or hormone treatment. The program also addresses the social and emotional implications of breast cancer on survivors and their families. Services include self-esteem coaching, range of motion and flexibility training, lymphedema prevention, strength training and stress management. Upon completion of the program, participants learn how to safely return to their usual daily activities and are able to independently incorporate healthier habits into their lifestyles.

If you or someone you know has been affected by cancer, and would like more information about the cancer recovery program, contact:

Ann M. Amicarelli, MA
Executive Director
The Marriage Center
Physical and Emotional Recovery Program for Breast Cancer Survivors
401 S. 2nd St.
Elkhart, IN 46516
Phone: (574) 206-4402

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