04/02/2020
WORLD CANCER DAY; ROLE OF PHYSIOTHERAPY IN CANCER MANAGEMENT.
The 4th of February, annually, is dedicated as the World Cancer Day. It started in 2000 and has gained international recognition over the years and its now celebrated by member states of the United Nations. World Cancer Day aims at raising awareness for cancer and encourage early detection, prevention and treatment. It also seeks to reduce stigma for cancer victims. The goal of this event is to reduce the number of illness and death caused by cancer. This year the theme is "I AM and I WILL."
Cancer is a disease in which the cells of a tissue undergo uncontrolled (and often rapid) proliferation. Cancer is a group of diseases involving abnormal cell growth with the potential to invade or spread to other parts of the body. In cancer, there is an abnormal cell growth with the ability to invade to other parts of the body. This differentiates it from benign tumors which are usually localized and do not spread. Over 100 different types of cancer affect humans. It is the leading cause of death worldwide
Death from cancer worldwide is on the rise. With a mortality rate of 7.6million deaths in 2008, it is projected to reach about 11 million in 2030. Some symptoms of cancer include; lump, abnormal bleeding, prolonged cough, unexplained weight loss, change in bowel movements etc. Physical inactivity and obesity are major risk factors for cancer.
Physiotherapists are exercise experts providing support for a wide range of people to maximize the physical activity. Their skills can help in preventing and treating the four main non-communicable diseases in the world, as identified by the United Nations: cardiovascular disease, respiratory disease, diabetes and cancer.
The link between physical activity and cancer
Large population studies have identified a strong association between lower levels of physical
activity and higher cancer mortality. Walking or cycling an average of 30 minutes per day has
been associated with a 34% lower rate of cancer death and a 33% improved cancer survival.
Source: Orsini N, Mantzoros C S et al. Association of physical activity with cancer incidence, mortality, and survival: a population based study of men. British Journal of Cancer. 2008 98: 1864-1869
Increasing numbers of studies are indicating that physical activity can reduce the incidence of cancer. World Health Organization recommendations say that undertaking 150 minutes of moderate intensity aerobic physical activity a week can reduce the risk of breast and colon cancers. The same amount of exercise can also reduce the risk of diabetes and heart disease.
Source: Global Recommendations on Physical Activity for Health, released by the World Health
Organization in 2011.
Physical activity helps people with the effects of treatment for cancer
A systematic review of controlled trials of physical activity interventions in cancer survivors, during and after treatment, showed that physical activity had a significant effect. A large effect was shown on upper and lower body strength, and a moderate effects on fatigue and breastcancer-specific concerns. Exercise was generally well-tolerated during and after treatment, with minimal adverse events. The study abstracted data from over 82 studies.
Source: Speck RM, Courneya KS et al. An update of controlled physical activity trials in cancer survivors: a systematic review and meta-analysis. J. Cancer Surviv. 2010 Jun;4(2):87-100.
Physical activity helps improve outcomes for people with cancer
Studies have indicated a relationship between higher physical activity levels and lower mortality in cancer survivors. A recent meta-analysis reported that, post-diagnosis, physical activity reduced breast cancer deaths by 34%, all causes mortality by 41% and disease recurrence by 24%.
Source: Ibrahim EM, Al-Homaidh A. Physical activity and survival after breast cancer diagnosis:
Acknowledgement; World Confederation for Physical Therapy.
