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Exercise


Even if you feel great and are in good health, it is important to consult with your physician before beginning any workout program. Certain types of chemotherapy used in treating childhood cancer may lead to heart disease that could be aggravated by strenuous activity. For example, some survivors who have had Adria can put themselves at a higher risk of heart damage by doing isometric exercises (for example-pull ups and bench pressing.) See late effects assessment. Discussing your exercise regimen with your doctor first will help ensure your safety.

Another contributor to adult cancers is a sedentary lifestyle. In combination with a poor diet, it will lead to obesity which has been linked to several adult cancers. Physical activity has been proven to reduce the incidence of colorectal cancer, coronary heart disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, and possibly breast cancer. Although there is no firm link between physical activity and reducing cancer recurrence, physical activity is known to increase energy, improve mood, boost self-esteem, stimulate the immune system, and reduce symptoms of pain, diarrhea, and constipation. Diet in combination with physical exercise will help you attain a healthy or normal weight, as defined by your doctor. Once you are at a healthy weight, limit weight gain throughout adulthood to less than 11 pounds and avoid significant and frequent gains or losses of weight. The American Institute for Cancer Research has excellent guidelines for maintaining healthy weight as well as thorough nutrition information.

What to do
Start with a workout routine that has a consistent level of limited to moderate activity. A schedule of moderate activity (at least 30 minutes of some form of exercise that raises your heart rate) several times a week.

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