8 ways to keep cancer survivors healthy

Get regular exercise
Regular exercise is one of the primary ways that survivors can stay healthy.  Exercise lowers reported fatigue in cancer patients by 40-50%, and the scientific evidence supporting exercise as the best intervention for fatigue is very strong. As a prescription therapy for cancer survivors, studies have suggested that regular physical activity will help to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence, given the known anti-inflammatory effects of exercise. 

Eat a healthy diet
Eating a healthy diet and getting plenty of exercise both give you energy and help you feel better. The Canadian Cancer Society reports that good nutrition is vital at every stage of your cancer treatment and recovery. Following their nutritional guide will help you heal and recover after treatment.

Get regular check-ups with your healthcare provider
Having regular check-ups with your healthcare providers is essential for your preventative care. As well, the long-term care of the cancer survivor can be effectively coordinated in an individualized survivorship plan that takes into account the cancer diagnosis, treatment, side effects, follow-up visits, the availability of psychological and support services, and tips on the best ways to maintain a healthy lifestyle.  

Get cancer rehab to overcome side effects of cancer treatment
Research strongly supports the effectiveness of cancer rehabilitation in improving the quality of life in cancer patients. Early rehabilitation interventions can help with some of the side effects of cancer and its treatments – including fatigue, cancer-related pain, peripheral neuropathy, adhesions & fibrosis, chemo fog, emotional distress, lymphedema and range-of-motion limitations.

Don’t smoke
Over twenty per cent of Canadians over the age of 11 still smoke, even though smoking is a known risk factor for many conditions including multiple types of cancer.
 
Avoid weight gain
Another important way to improve your health is to keep your weight in check. Cancer treatment can be complicated by weight gain, and excess body weight is also associated with cancer recurrence, reduced quality of life, and reduced survival.

Drink in moderation
Drinking alcohol in moderation is important for cancer survivors to stay healthy. Drinking more than the maximum three alcoholic drinks a week for women, or seven to fourteen for men, can adversely affect health as well as cancer risk.

Stay connected with family and friends
Make sure to have regular visits with your family or friends to maintain your overall health. By maintaining these supportive connections, quality of life is improved and stress, depression and fatigue is reduced.

Many Lifemark clinics offer cancer rehab services. To learn more, click here to see a list of locations.