Breast, prostate and colon cancer patients are often told that they can exercise after cancer diagnoses, even during chemotherapy. We certainly recommend this at the Block Center. But the presence of cancer in the lungs might have a uniquely bad effect on the ability of lung cancer patients to exercise, since breathing is so important in exercise, especially aerobic exercise.
Fortunately, research has begun on whether lung cancer patients can exercise safely, and whether they would benefit from exercise. The exercise studies have so far been rather small studies, and not very many of them randomized. However, a randomized study in China did find that regular walking after cancer treatment helped lung cancer patients sleep better and maintain better daily activity rhythms.
The question of whether lung cancer patients can exercise during chemotherapy is an even more serious topic. Chemotherapy has many side effects such as infection risks and fatigue that might make exercising problematic for lung cancer patients.
A study in the journal Integrative Cancer Therapies, of which Dr Block is the Editor-in-Chief, recently tested an exercise program with lung cancer patients during chemotherapy – with very promising results. This 6-week study was conducted in Denmark as single-group feasibility research with 114 patients, conducted as a gym class supervised by physical therapists. The exercise program involved using: a stationary bike for warming up muscles, strength enhancement with weight training machines, more stationary biking at a higher intensity for cardiovascular fitness. After this exercise sequence, patients systematically stretched to increase agility, and concluded with a session of progressive muscle relaxation (PMR). This multi-dimensional exercise program is exactly in line with the type of training we recommend at the Block Center – though we advise that patients continue exercising much longer than 6 weeks.
Of course, very specific safety measures were in place. Particularly, patients with brain or bone metastases, those with prolonged bone marrow suppression, patients being treated with anticoagulants, and those with heart disease were not engaged in the program. And study participants were checked at every exercise session to ensure they did not have a fever or infection, had blood pressure within a healthy range as well as heart rate, platelet count and white blood cell count. Patients who exercise on their own should also observe these precautions, and should get their doctor’s approval before initiating this type of new exercise program.
What were the results of the study after 6 weeks of exercise? The tests showed that aerobic capacity, or the ability of the body to consume oxygen, significantly increased. Since aerobic capacity clearly involves the lungs, this is a remarkable finding in chemo patients with lung cancer. Additionally, these patients improved their ability to walk distances, a general measure of functional ability and endurance. There were also definite increases in muscle strength, in legs, arms, back and abdomen. Plus, patients’ level of anxiety decreased, and their emotional well-being increased.
Physical changes like what was evidenced truly help patients maintain their daily activities, so they can continue in a more normal life. Ultimately, improved daily functioning – “performance status” in medical jargon – with increased emotional as well as physical stamina may help them complete their chemotherapy regimens, and contribute to better outcomes in many other ways.
Based on these results, and our own observations of Block Center patients over the years, we’d definitely encourage lung cancer patients to consider starting an exercise program, even during treatment. It’s important that you consult with your doctor, and with a physical therapist or personal trainer who is experienced in working with cancer patients. It’s also important that you keep in mind all the safety considerations mentioned earlier, and individualize exercise to your particular clinical problems. Dr Block explains how to begin an exercise program in consultations with cancer patients, and our Integrative Assessment program helps identify how to individualize an exercise routine. To get a head start on your exercise program, call our office today at 1-877-41-BLOCK and talk to one of our patient advocates.