With millions of people fighting cancer every day, the disease has become the world's leading cause of death, according to the World Health Organization. Although cancers of the breast, lung, skin and colon are among the most common types, cancer can affect any part of the body. For women, cancers of the reproductive organs include cervical, endometrial and ovarian cancer. Although cervical cancer often requires harsh treatments, exercise can help improve the patient's quality of life.
Cervical Cancer
According to MayoClinic.com, cervical cancer is among the most common types of cancers that affects a woman's reproductive system. The two types of cervical cancer include squamous cell carcinoma, which begins in the bottom of the cervix, and adenocarcinoma, which begins in the upper part of the cervix. With either type, the normal cervical cells mutate into abnormal versions and then continue to multiply uncontrollably. Eventually, these abnormal cells clump together and form a tumor. Although the exact cause of cellular mutation remains unclear, the human papillomavirus, or HPV, is thought to play a role in cervical cancer.
Benefits of Exercise
It was once recommended that cancer patients rest and avoid strenuous activity during treatment. However, the American College of Sports Medicine now suggests that regular exercise can significantly improve the patient's quality of life during cancer treatment. In fact, the ACSM recommends that cancer patients and survivors should avoid inactivity, even while going through cancer treatment. Regular exercise can maintain muscle and bone strength, boost energy levels, relieve anxiety and prevent weight gain commonly associated with cancer treatment. Exercise can also help cervical cancer patients tolerate harsh cancer treatments, such as chemotherapy, radiation or surgery.
Physical Therapy
The Cancer Treatment Centers of America also recommends regular exercise for cervical cancer patients. In fact, it offers rehabilitation and physical therapy services for patients fighting cervical cancer. Physical therapy sessions include cardiovascular exercise, strength training and flexibility exercises. According to the organization, these physical therapy sessions allow the staff to treat not only the cancer, but also the overall health of the patient.
Recommended Exercises
Before starting an exercise regiment, you should speak with your doctor about appropriate exercises for your specific condition. Since cervical cancer affects each patient differently, some patients may tolerate certain activities better than others. That said, most cancer patients are able to handle moderate cardiovascular exercise, such as walking, gentle cycling and swimming. Light strength training can also be attempted, although strenuous strength training should be avoided. Other stretches and flexibility exercises, such as yoga or Pilates, are also beneficial.
Safety Considerations
Speak with your physician before beginning an exercise regimen. Once you have been cleared to exercise, pay close attention to your body throughout your workout. Avoid workouts that strain your body too intensely or require heavy lifting. If you become dizzy, lightheaded, nauseous or experience severe shortness of breath or pain during your workout, stop exercising immediately.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Cervical Cancer
- National Cancer Institute: Cervical Cancer
- American College of Sports Medicine: New Guidelines Srongly Reommend Exercise For Cancer Patients, Survivors
- Cancer Treatment Centers Of America: Cervical Cancer Treatments -- Physical Therapy
- CNN Health: Cancer? More Exercise, Not Less, May Be Best
- World Health Organization: Cancer
