Yoga and Walking Benefit Cancer Survivors

_{Image Credit: Gulf Today}

A recent study suggests that yoga and walking can reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and spreading, improving survival odds for cancer survivors. The study, which is awaiting peer review, focused on a specific form of yoga called Yoga for Cancer Survivors (Yocas), tailored for individuals who have battled cancer.

Yocas involves hatha yoga, specifically designed for cancer survivors. Inflammation, both acute and chronic, is associated with cancer development, progression, and the toxicities of anti-cancer drugs, impacting the survival of patients.

The research also indicates that walking for half an hour daily can help alleviate fatigue in cancer patients. However, the effectiveness of non-pharmaceutical interventions like yoga and exercise in combating inflammation remains uncertain, according to Karen Mustian from the University of Rochester Medical Center.

In a clinical trial presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology’s annual meeting, over 500 cancer survivors were enrolled and randomly assigned to either the Yocas group or the placebo group.

The Yocas group practiced hatha yoga for 75 minutes twice a week for four weeks, while the placebo group underwent a health education program based on survivorship recommendations. Both interventions were led by certified health professionals.

Serum samples were collected before and after the interventions to assess inflammation markers. The Yocas group showed significantly lower overall signs of inflammation compared to the placebo group.

Based on the findings, researchers recommend hatha yoga for cancer survivors experiencing inflammation.

Another study presented at the conference by University of Rochester researchers demonstrated that a home-based exercise prescription can improve outcomes in cancer patients.

Researchers noted that oncologists should consider prescribing Yocas yoga for survivors dealing with inflammation, as it may reduce the chronic toxicity burden and the risk of progression, recurrence, and second cancers.

Re-reported from the article originally published in Gulf Today.