Cancer Survivor : improve survival and help prevent recurrence or the development of a second primary cancer

If you’re a cancer survivor, you know that completing your treatments was just one step in your cancer journey. Transitioning to recovery brings with it, its own set of challenges. One of them being a nagging worry that your cancer may return. Compelling new evidence suggests that as a cancer survivor, you

can play an active role in preventing recurrence and improving your long-term survival. Until now, much of the health advice dispersed by doctors followed conventional wisdom but wasn’t supported

by evidence-based data. The American Cancer Society (ACS), for the first

time, is issuing formal Nutrition and Physical Activity Guidelines for cancer survivors. The guidelines, backed by years of resea

rch, advise how to improve survival and help prevent recurrence or the development of a second primary cancer. Among the ACS’s recommendations:

      Limit red meat and added sugar: In one study, colon cancer survivors who consumed a high intake of red meat and sugar had a decreased rate of overall survival from cancer and other conditions. And, although studies haven’t tied high intake of sugar to cancer recurrence, try to stay away from it – foods high in added sugar, tend to have little dietary value and contribute to unwanted weight gain .

   

      Eat a healthy diet and fill your plate with a large variety of whole grains and colorful fruits and vegetables: Studies have associated a high intake of vegetables, fruits and whole grains with a decreased rate of cancer recurrence. They also suggest that a wide variety of healthful foods confer more benefit than a few specific foods. Aim for two to three cups of vegetables and one to two cups of fruit daily.

     

      Avoid dietary supplements when possible: No study has shown that a supplement helps protect against future cancers or improves long-term survival. Some suggest dietary supplements may do more harm than good. Unless your doctor specifically recommends a supplement because you have a deficiency, try to get your nutrients from food sources instead.

     

       Be physically active: Studies of people with breast, colorectal, prostate and ovarian cancers consistently point to an association between regular exercise and decreased risk of cancer recurrence and improved overall survival. Active survivors benefit from improved heart and lung function, muscle strength, balance, mood, energy, self-esteem and quality of life. Get at least 150 minutes of moderate aerobic activity (brisk walking, light gardening, water aerobics) or 75 minutes of vigorous activity (jogging, heavy gardening like hoeing or digging, fast swimming) a week. Devote at least two exercise sessions to strength training. Begin activity as soon as possible after diagnosis or treatment. If you have limited mobility, try to avoid long periods of inactivity. At the least, try to move around in three 10-minute increments each day. You don’t need to join a gym to be active; simple power-walking with a friend will do.

      Achieve and maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is a major risk factor for many cancers. If you’re overweight or obese, it’s essential that you lose weight. Increasing evidence shows that excessive weight is a good indicator of cancer recurrence or poor overall survival outlook. Some cancers or treatment may cause too much weight loss, resulting in the risk of malnutrition or other complications. Work closely with your dietitian to ensure you’re getting essential nutrients. Don’t give up physical activity – you need strong muscles and exercise’s cardiopulmonary benefits – but avoid vigorous workouts that burn lots of calories.

      Your health focus shouldn’t be on cancer alone: Cancer survivors are at an increased risk of developing chronic conditions like heart disease, diabetes or osteoporosis – in fact, almost half of all cancer survivors die from another condition. Following the ACS guidelines can help keep other types of cancers and diseases at bay. Encourage your family members to follow these guidelines, too. People whose family members have cancer run a higher risk of developing the disease. You’re setting a good example for future generations by promoting healthy lifestyle behaviours that improve your survivorship status while reducing your loved ones’ risk of getting cancer one day.