A growing body of research shows exercise plays an important role in the prevention of cancer and those recovering from the disease.
"If we can get them going while they are on treatment we can help with physical and psychological effects and hopefully keep activity level up throughout," says Nicole Culos-Reid, who is based at the U of C and is considered one of Canada's leading researchers in the area of cancer and physical activity.
Her theories are being proven by patients like Brian MacGregor who, in 2003, was diagnosed with testicular cancer.
Even though he had surgery and intense chemotherapy he continued to exercise during and after treatment. "I wanted my life back and doing that bit of exercise gave me that element of control," says MacGregor.
Ongoing research shows that regular exercise helps patients cope with fatigue, pain and nausea.
"The more exercise I could do, the better I felt at handling the chemotherapy," says MacGregor.
The latest research also shows exercise may reduce the risk of cancer returning to patients who have already battled it.
Culos-Reid is hosting a panel of experts to examine the role exercise plays for cancer survivors.
The fee information day is designed for cancer patients, survivors, family members, medical professionals, and fitness professionals.
It will take place on Friday, January 22nd between 1 p.m. and 4 p.m. at the Foothills Auditorium at the Foothills Hospital.
