Exercise Intervention to Modify Physiologic Risk Factors in Cancer Survivors

Objective

To review the best current evidence regarding the effects of exercise on modifiable risk factors for adverse physiologic outcomes of cancer and its treatment.

Data Sources

Clinical practice guidelines, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and single studies.

Conclusion

There is mounting evidence that exercise improves fatigue, physical functioning, and cardio-respiratory fitness. Preliminary evidence suggests that exercise also contributes to improvements in body weight and composition, metabolic risk factors, and immune function. It may also influence disease-free and overall survival in selected populations.

Implications for Nursing Practice

Exercise appears to be a safe and well-tolerated intervention that may minimize or prevent adverse physiologic outcomes of cancer and cancer treatment.

Keywords: Neoplasm, exercise, risk factor, prevention and control, prospective study