In the Know: Smart Workouts Cut Lung Cancer Symptoms

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Smart Workouts Cut Lung Cancer Symptoms

Exercise benefits everyone, that’s a fact. And that includes people with lung cancer, who tend to do much better with their illness if they work out.   

 

In an eight-week study of 25 adult lung cancer patients at Massachusetts General Hospital, those who performed aerobic and weight-training exercises for 90 to 120 minutes twice a week had more muscle strength, less fatigue, and reported a better quality of life than those who did not exercise regularly. “Lung cancer patients are willing—and able—to participate in physical activity,” says lead researcher Jennifer S. Temel, MD, assistant professor at Harvard Medical School.

 

Before beginning any new workout, it’s important to have a discussion with your healthcare provider. Exercise programs for people with advanced lung cancer must often be carefully individualized.