According to nih it has been observed that the estimated number of cancer cases in India for the year 2022 has been 14,61,427. This suggests that 1 in 9 individuals are likely to develop cancer in their lifetime. Cancer is usually caused by uncontrollable growth of epithelial cells in most of the cases including some environmental ones.
These cells invade healthy tissues that cover various surfaces in the body, leading to the formation of tumors, organ dysfunction, and potentially life-threatening complications. Tumors can be either malignant or benign. In addition, malignant cells can invade new tissues and spread, forming secondary tumors or metastases in distant parts of the body.
The Biggest Setback of Fatigue in Cancer
Cancer Related Fatigue (CRF) is the prime ordeal faced by the patient suffering from cancer. It prevents the individual from participating actively in daily activities. CRF is quite different from normal fatigue, it requires more than just a simple bed rest!
What do patients feel:
Feel tired even after rest
Complaints of weakness
No wanting to anything
No hunger at times
Can't focus at work
Feel slowed down
Many even feel too weak to eat or to even walk to the bathroom.
One must know that such abnormal fatigue occurs because of the patient receiving high power radiation therapy or cytotoxic chemotherapy. CRF interferes with a patient's perceived energy levels, mental capacity and psychological status. Various psychological factors like anxiety, depression or difficulty in sleeping play have a significant impact or contribute to a reduced level of physical functioning. Essentially, these mental health issues can lower a person's ability to perform physical activities or maintain optimum physical health.
Read Ahead & Explore how ABTP Rescues Fatigue in Cancer
In cancer, it’s crucial to address cancer-related fatigue to conserve energy levels. It is recommended that affected individuals follow expert-guided training programs to overcome the challenges of fatigue and improve their overall well-being. These can be of help because of including various techniques into the training program.
Have a glance at the way Expert-guided program looks like for a patient undergoing chemotherapy.
Aerobic exercise: To combat cancer-related fatigue, ABTP experts recommend incorporating aerobic exercises into training regimens. Rhythmic contraction and relaxation of large muscle groups over a prolonged period are particularly effective for restoring energy levels and increasing oxygen consumption. Physical activity during this time is essential, as it can enhance patients’ self-confidence and independence.
Resistance training: Studies indicate that 10 to 35 sessions of resistance training (RT) can significantly reduce cancer-related fatigue. Resistance exercises improve muscle contraction abilities, leading to functional improvements in affected individuals. Evidence also suggests that RT supports bone density. Typically performed with dumbbells, resistance bands, or body weight, RT helps prevent muscle degradation and reduce inflammation. For cancer-related fatigue, low-resistance exercises are beneficial for overcoming the weakness caused by chemotherapy.
Balance training: Balance exercises specifically address balance-related issues in cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy. They are also known to strengthen both the upper and lower body, which helps prevent falls. Furthermore, balance training is essential for improving muscle function and body composition. It enhances cognitive function, promotes strength, and helps reduce fatigue in cancer patients.
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