Physical activity can support women in the fight against breast cancer

The role of regular exercise in the treatment of breast cancer is of significant importance. Numerous studies have shown that physical activity positively impacts not only our physical condition but also our attitude towards the disease. Exercise not only strengthens our bodies but also helps to endure the discomforts caused by the illness, such as joint and muscle pains that may arise during treatment.

One important element in the treatment of breast cancer is the use of aromatase inhibitors, which act as estrogen blockers and help reduce the risk of hormone-driven tumors. However, many women taking these medications may experience unpleasant side effects, making them prone to discontinuing treatment. Therefore, regular exercise can not only help improve physical condition but also encourage the continuation of medication, as it can alleviate pain and enhance overall well-being.

Research indicates that the effects of exercise are multifaceted and can play a key role in overcoming breast cancer. Below, we detail how exercise can help improve the quality of life for women living with breast cancer.

The impact of exercise on the quality of life of women with breast cancer

Regular exercise can significantly contribute to improving the quality of life for women diagnosed with breast cancer. Studies have observed that physical activity reduces pain intensity, particularly in the joints and muscles. Among women who actively participated in exercise programs, pain perception decreased by an average of 20% after one year, while the passive group experienced only a 3% improvement.

Regular movement not only plays a role in pain reduction but also in increasing physical endurance. Participants in exercise programs improved their cardiovascular and respiratory performance, which contributed to easier completion of daily activities. Additionally, exercise can help in controlling body weight; those who exercised regularly lost an average of 3.6 kilograms, while the passive group showed slight weight gain.

Thus, regular physical activity has a favorable effect not only on pain reduction but also on improving physical condition. In this light, incorporating movement into breast cancer treatment can fundamentally assist women in better coping with the discomforts arising from the illness and treatments.

Exercise as a solution to alleviate medication side effects

Aromatase inhibitors, which effectively reduce the risk of hormone-driven tumors, often cause unpleasant side effects, such as joint and muscle pain. Women frequently stop taking these medications for this reason, which can jeopardize the effectiveness of treatment. However, research shows that regular exercise can help alleviate these side effects.

In studies, some participants engaged in strength and aerobic training weekly, while others received only suggestions about the benefits of exercise. The improvements experienced by those who participated in regular workouts indicate that physical activity can aid not only in pain reduction but also in the continuation of medication. 80% of participants completed the exercise program, which contributed to a decrease in pain intensity and an improvement in well-being.

Eric Winer, head of the breast cancer department at the Dana-Farber Institute, emphasized that exercise could be the key to managing side effects. Therefore, adopting an active lifestyle not only improves physical condition but can also provide motivation for continuing medication, allowing women to enjoy the benefits of hormone therapy in the long term.

The benefits of regular exercise for mental health

For women living with breast cancer, physical activity plays a role not only in pain reduction and improving physical condition but also in maintaining mental health. The diagnosis and treatment of the disease can often cause significant stress and anxiety, negatively impacting women’s daily lives. However, regular exercise has been proven to reduce stress levels and improve mood.

During physical activity, the body releases endorphins, which are natural pain relievers and mood enhancers. Regular exercise can help alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety, thus contributing to the maintenance of mental well-being. Additionally, participation in sports provides opportunities for building social connections, which is also important for mental health.

For women with breast cancer, both physical and mental health are crucial. Incorporating regular exercise into daily routines can help in the treatment of the disease, improving well-being and boosting self-confidence. An active lifestyle can contribute to better coping with the challenges of the illness and support women on their path to recovery.