Mesothelioma patients are frequently debilitated by both their disease and the treatment protocols designed to improve their condition. As much progress as may be made, many of those who had been in relatively good health before diagnosis feel a real need for ways to feel stronger during and after treatment. New cancer research suggests that structured exercise may be particularly helpful. A recent New York Times report highlighted growing evidence that supervised exercise programs can improve both quality of life and long-term outcomes for people with cancer.
Mesothelioma Patients and the Exercise Evidence
While mesothelioma has not been the focus of these exercise studies, the findings from other cancers are striking. In a randomized controlled trial, colon cancer patients who worked with a trainer-coach in a structured three-year exercise program were less likely to see their cancer return and reported better quality of life. After eight years, 90 percent of program participants were alive, compared with 83 percent of those who did not take part. A follow-up study found that the program, which cost about $3,000 per person, also saved the health system money.
The programs profiled in the study aim to address fatigue, low stamina, and shortness of breath, the same post-treatment impacts that mesothelioma patients often struggle with. The University of Pittsburgh Medical Center (UPMC) has introduced a program called Moving Through Cancer: It matches patients with specialized trainers who tailor exercise routines to each person’s abilities. These programs are available both in-person and online. One patient profiled in the study is a 68-year-old woman recovering from bladder and uterine cancer. She reported feeling like her normal self again after 12 weeks, and was even able to return to bike rides with her husband.
Mesothelioma Care and the Access Gap
As encouraging as these results are, mesothelioma patients interested in one of these structured programs may find their options limited, both based on access and ability. Oncology exercise programs tend to be offered at major cancer centers and are either supported by philanthropic donors or are paid out-of-pocket by patients; at this point, insurers are not covering them.
Doctors who are aware of the benefits may refer patients to physical therapy and rehabilitation, which insurance can reimburse, and many YMCA branches offer a free or low-cost 12-week program for cancer patients. UPMC plans to become the first health system to cover exercise oncology through its employee health plan, starting with breast cancer patients next year and potentially expanding to all cancers in 2028.
Mesothelioma Patients Should Check with Their Doctors Before Beginning Exercise
Mesothelioma is a serious disease, and treatments such as surgery, chemotherapy, and immunotherapy can affect the body in ways that make some physical activity unsafe. No one should begin an exercise program without first consulting their physician, and exercise may not be appropriate for every patient. Your care team is best positioned to decide whether a supervised program, physical therapy, or gentler activity makes sense for your situation, and may also be able to point you toward resources in your area.
If you or someone you love has been diagnosed with mesothelioma, the Patient Advocates at Mesothelioma.net are here to help. Contact us today at 1-800-692-8608 to learn more.