Exercise during and after any cancer treatment
Strong evidence it eases fatigue, anxiety and depression.
What studies found
The 2019 international guideline found strong evidence that aerobic exercise improves fatigue, anxiety, depression, quality of life and physical function in survivors. Twice-weekly strength training did not raise lymphedema risk.
The catch
Evidence is insufficient for nerve damage, memory problems, pain or finishing chemotherapy on schedule.
What to do
About 30 minutes of aerobic exercise three times a week plus strength training twice a week, adjusted to how you feel.
Sources
Rung 5 of 5, Established: Large randomized trials or overwhelming, consistent human evidence; reflected in major guidelines. How we score
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Every option we rated, or follow one cancer step by step: breast cancer, colorectal cancer, lung cancer and prostate cancer.