News

Exercise support for cancer treatment

Jul 04, 2022

Everton Park is part of a national network of locations where Cancer Care Activate is being run, a rehabilitation program designed for people who have experienced a decline in functioning and quality of life as a result of cancer treatment.

North West Private Hospital allied health manager Graeme Walker said since the program launched locally around a year ago it has welcomed patients from within the hospital, other hospitals, and directly from the community.

“It’s such a great evidence-based program and I’ve seen patients benefit from it.

“While years ago the thinking may have been to rest during treatment, there’s a strong body of evidence showing the benefits of appropriate exercise during cancer treatment.”

Australia’s leading cancer organisations have called for exercise to be prescribed to all cancer patients as part of routine cancer care.

As outlined on the Cancer Council website, research shows exercise can help cancer patients tolerate aggressive treatments, minimise the physical declines caused by cancer, counteract cancer-related fatigue, relieve mental distress and improve quality of life.1

Mr Walker says the Cancer Care Activate program combines education, exercise and support in a small group setting, twice a week for six weeks – delivered by a team including rehabilitation physicians, physio and occupational therapists, exercise physiologists, dietitians and psychologists.

The program supports patients to improve quality of life, with a focus on functional and psychological wellbeing. They can start the ACTIVATE program at any stage of the cancer pathway – before, during or after cancer treatment. Exercises are tailored to each individual’s activity level and education topics range from activity pacing and nutrition to stress management and healthy sleep patterns.

North West Private Hospital offers a range of day patient rehabilitation programs, available to eligible privately insured, self funded and veteran patients.

Speak with your treating specialist or GP about the program and a referral – and learn more at https://www.northwestprivatehospital.com.au/Our-Services/Rehabilitation-Services/Day-Rehabilitation-Programs/CancerCare-ACTIVATE

_{1 https://www.cancer.org.au/blog/every-cancer-patient-should-be-prescribed-exercise-medicine}