Exercise for Breast Cancer

Written by Isabella Peters (Accredited Exercise Physiologist)

Did You Know?

1 in 8 women in Australia will develop Breast Cancer
There is a 90% survival rate however there is an increased likelihood of chronic disease post treatment.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in woman in Australia
On average, 53 people will be diagnosed with breast cancer everyday.

Breast cancer is the abnormal growth of the cells lining the breast
The cells grow uncontrollably and have the potential to spread to other parts of the body

Risk factors to developing breast cancer include:

Increasing age
Family history
Exposure to female hormones
Previous non cancer breast conditions
Lifestyle risk factors such as being overweight, not enough physical activity and drinking alcohol.

Symptoms of Breast Cancer include:

Research has shown that exercise can:

Help manage the side effects through treatment such as chemotherapy, radiotherapy and hormone therapy
Increase energy levels/ manage fatigue
Improve mood and quality of life
Reduce the decline in muscle mass
Decrease the risk of chronic disease post treatment such as diabetes, high blood pressure and cardiovascular disease
Helps to circulate chemotherapy so it is more targeted to cancer site
Maintain flexibility and balance
Improve bone health
Decrease cognitive impairment
Manage chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy
Manage lymphedema
Improve sleep quality
Help you cope with stress, anxiety and depression

Research from Edith Cowan University has found that exercising for 3hours + a week can reduce the risk of death by 50%.
Even completing at least 1 hr per week has benefits and decreased risk of death.
This is because exercise can reduce the risk of chronic disease such as diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease and the re-occurrence of cancer
Cardio toxicity post chemotherapy is very common due to damage to the heart muscle, however exercise can help reverse this
It has also been found that people who exercise during and post cancer treatment have a better quality of life, improved mood, physical function, cardio respiratory fitness and reduced fatigue

The team of Exercise Physiologists at Inspire Fitness can tailor a program to help manage Breast Cancer during or after treatment.

Our Exercise Physiology process involves:

Initial assessment to understand other medical conditions, musculoskeletal injuries, goals and current treatment
An exercise program individualised to your needs and ability
One on one Exercise Physiology sessions or a gym membership with regular contact and reviews
Continuous support, guidance and education

For more information ask one of our Exercise Physiology team members or contact Isabella on 9857 3007.

Exercise has many benefits for women experiencing breast cancer, both during and after treatment
It is important to consult with an Exercise Physiologist to create a program to take into consideration side effects experienced and other co-morbidity
Exercise is something which can help bring an aspect of control into someone’s life to help them feel better during a difficult time
It may also be difficult to stay motivated and adherent to exercise during cancer treatment due to the fatigue, this is where an Exercise Physiologist can help to stay accountable