Being Active with Prostate Cancer

Being Active with Prostate Cancer

The Importance of Exercise for Men with Prostate Cancer

Prostate cancer is a challenging diagnosis that affects many men around the world. As daunting as it may be, there are steps you can take to improve your overall well-being and enhance your quality of life during and after treatment. One of the most beneficial ways to do this is through regular exercise.

The Benefits of Exercise

Exercise offers a multitude of advantages for men with prostate cancer. Not only does it help manage treatment side effects like incontinence, but it also builds strength and lifts your spirits. In fact, research suggests that regular exercise and healthy eating may even lower the risk of cancer recurrence, particularly for those with early-stage prostate cancer¹.

When it comes to choosing which exercises to incorporate into your routine, the choice is yours. Dr. Evan Pisick, an oncologist at the renowned Cancer Treatment Centers of America hospital, emphasizes the importance of enjoyable activities that resonate with you personally². Whether it’s lifting weights, engaging in cross-training, or simply going for a leisurely walk or run, the key is to find exercises that you genuinely enjoy.

Before You Start Exercising

Before embarking on an exercise program, it is crucial to consult with your oncologist and seek their guidance. Depending on your current state of treatment, your doctor may recommend specific activities that are best suited for you, taking into consideration any potential risks or complications.

Dr. Pisick stresses that different stages of treatment require different approaches. For instance, individuals undergoing radiation treatments can continue to exercise³. However, if you’ve recently had prostate surgery, you may need to avoid certain exercises initially, such as pelvic floor training or riding a bike, to prevent unwanted complications like urinary incontinence⁴. Nonetheless, after a few weeks of recovery, seeing a physical therapist who specializes in post-surgery exercises, including pelvic floor training, can be immensely beneficial.

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Pelvic floor training, commonly known as Kegel exercises, are specifically designed to strengthen the muscles responsible for controlling bladder and bowel function. These exercises offer significant relief for those who have undergone radical prostatectomy surgery by helping to address issues relating to urinary control⁵.

Maximizing the Benefits of Exercise

In addition to managing treatment side effects, exercise can combat some of the negative consequences associated with medication, such as androgen suppression therapy (AST). AST is a treatment that reduces male hormones to suppress the growth of prostate tumors. However, it often results in side effects like muscle weakness, weight gain, and emotional fluctuations⁶.

Dr. Pisick acknowledges that when testosterone levels are diminished, muscle mass can be negatively affected⁷. However, engaging in both cardio and strength training exercises can help maintain muscle mass, prevent weight gain, and even lead to weight loss⁸. Additionally, cardiovascular exercises like biking or brisk walking contribute to managed weight, lowering the chances of cancer recurrence and reducing the risk of heart disease⁹.

Exercise also has a substantial impact on your mental well-being. It helps improve your mood, alleviating any anxiety, depression, or negative emotions that may arise due to the experience of prostate cancer or its treatments¹⁰. Dr. Pisick shares a heartwarming anecdote about his 78-year-old father, who, during his recovery from prostate cancer, embraced brisk walks as part of his exercise routine. His father reported feeling happier and in the best shape of his life since becoming more active¹¹.

Designing Your Exercise Routine

When initiating your exercise routine, it’s essential to start slowly and gradually increase intensity to prevent straining your body. Seeking guidance from a physical therapist or personal trainer can prove beneficial in assessing your condition, creating a safe and personalized exercise regimen, and offering the necessary motivation to stay on track¹².

Dr. Pisick recommends aiming for 30 minutes of physical activity at least five days a week, though exceeding this goal is encouraged if you feel up to the challenge. These activities should encompass a combination of cardio exercises to improve heart health and manage weight, weight-bearing exercises to prevent bone loss, and strength training exercises, including pelvic floor training, which helps build muscle strength and reduce bladder leaks¹³.

However, it’s important not to overlook the benefits of slower-paced exercises on days when fatigue sets in. Yoga, tai chi, and Pilates are excellent choices for improving strength and flexibility while being gentle on the body¹⁴. Dr. Pisick also mentions the benefits of meditation, emphasizing that it can work wonders for both the mind and body.

On days when you feel drained or down, engaging in even a small amount of cardio exercise can have a significant impact on alleviating fatigue. Dr. Pisick highlights the importance of taking that extra step and notes that any form of activity, no matter how minimal, can lead to an improved outlook on your overall well-being in the long run¹⁵.

In conclusion, exercise plays a vital role in managing treatment side effects, preserving muscle mass, and reducing the risk of cancer recurrence in men with prostate cancer. It is not only a physical endeavor but also a means of achieving a positive mindset and outlook through the release of endorphins and improved sleep. By incorporating exercise into your daily routine and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, you can enhance the quality of your life during and after prostate cancer treatment.