Exercise Helps Cancer Patients Ward Off Heart Damage from Chemotherapy

An article recently published in the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology notes that cancer treatment can impair heart function and structure, which can cause or accelerate the development of cardiovascular disease. Because of this, the article recommends that individuals under treatment for cancer should be given a tailored exercise prescription to protect their heart based on their history, cancer treatment, response to exercise, and personal preferences. Author Dr. Flavio D’Ascenzi adds, “Physical activity before, during, and after cancer treatment can counteract the negative effects of therapies on the cardiovascular system. In addition, it can relieve symptoms such as nausea and fatigue and help prevent unwanted changes in body weight.” European Journal of Preventive Cardiology, October 2019