Diet, exercise, and complementary therapies after primary treatment for cancer

Abstract

Every year, more than 10 million people are diagnosed with cancer worldwide. In view of the substantial improvements in early detection and treatment, even more patients can expect to be alive 5 years after diagnosis. With improvements in longevity, the late-occurring adverse effects of cancer and its treatment are becoming increasingly apparent. Healthy lifestyle behaviours that encompass regular exercise, weight control, healthy nutrition, and some complementary practices-eg, support groups, imagery-have the potential to greatly reduce cancer-treatment-associated morbidity and mortality in cancer survivors and can enhance quality of life. Here, we aim to review the strength of evidence for recommendations for exercise, weight management, nutritional practices, and related complementary therapies; assess the perceived needs of cancer survivors for health information and how they can access this information; and discuss the resources available to oncology care providers and patients about healthy lifestyle behaviours. Overall, this review provides important information to oncology care providers who counsel their patients on preventive lifestyle practices to maximise health and longevity after a diagnosis of cancer. © 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.