Exercise and blood cancer
Exercise before, during and after blood cancer treatment can have many benefits. Cancer related fatigue is one of the most commonly reported side effects of blood cancer and its treatment.
Some people report concerns that exercise may not be safe during cancer treatment. Studies have shown it is in fact safe and beneficial to exercise. Try to avoid inactivity if it is safe to do exercise.
People who participate in exercise before, during or following cancer treatment report improvements in:
- cancer related fatigue,
- pain,
- psychological distress,
- anxiety,
- depression,
- physical function,
- bone health,
- cognitive function,
- cardio-respiratory fitness,
- health-related quality of life.
What are the benefits of exercise before, during, and after blood cancer treatment?
Where possible, exercising before your treatment starts can help to
- prevent deconditioning and
- lessen the side-effects you may experience during treatment.
Exercising during treatment can help with
- treatment tolerance,
- support you to maintain activities of daily living and
- ease some of the cancer related fatigue you might be experiencing.
Exercising post cancer treatment can help with
- recovery and
- reduce the risk of further health issues.
Maintaining your participation in exercise over time provides the greatest benefits. Speak with your treatment team before starting exercising to make sure it is safe. They can suggest options that will suit you.
What exercise is recommended for people with blood cancer?
The Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) have recommendations on the amount of exercise for people with a cancer diagnosis. It is important to focus on activities that will help you gradually build strength but do not deplete your energy levels.
The full Clinical Oncology Society of Australia (COSA) position statement can be be found here.
The department of health and aging have specific information for older people on exercising with chronic illness and some advice about healthy eating.
The amount and type of exercise recommended depends on your individual circumstances, including what you would like to achieve. Please discuss exercise with your treatment team to ensure that your choice of exercise best suits your healthcare needs.
How can I get exercise support?
You can get support for starting an exercise program in a variety of settings, such as in hospital as an inpatient, at a cancer treatment or community centre, in your home, or online via Telehealth services.
- Access the service directory in the online support service to find services near you.
- Speak to your treatment team to find out what exercise programs are available at your treatment centre.
- Speak to your local Blood Cancer Support Coordinator at the Leukaemia Foundation for help.
- Speak to your GP about a GP management plan where you can receive medicare subsidised rebates for exercise sessions.
See more here: Department of Health and Aged Care | Chronic Disease Management Patient Information
Consider accessing affordable community based exercise options as approved by your hospital treating team (e.g. yoga, pilates, tai chi, gym etc).