Cancer is among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide, with approximately 14 million new cases and an incidence rate expected to rise by 70% over the next two decades. It is well documented that cancer progression and its treatment is associated with adverse physical and physiological changes leading to metabolic and functional modifications, inducing pathologies of the cardiac, pulmonary, neural, bone and skeletomuscular systems. These alterations effect cardiorespiratory capacity (fitness), strength, body composition, and physical function including immune system integrity, peripheral neuropathy, and quality of life. However, it is increasingly becoming clear that prescribing exercise during and post-cancer treatment may mitigate many of these adverse changes.   The aim of the current study was to design and implement an individualized combined exercise program and evaluate its effects on improving cardiopulmonary fitness in cancer survivors. Breast cancer patients who have received a combination of surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy as part of their cancer treatment were recruited to the study.
All the participants were at least 2-6 months post-treatment. Cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength, flexibility and quality of life were assessed at baseline using CPET, 5-RM, sit-an-reach test and SF-36 questionnaire respectively.
An exercise program consisting of aerobic exercises, flexibility exercises and resistance exercises based on the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) prescribed guidelines for cancer survivors were implemented for 2 months. Patients received a flexible individualized exercise program based on their baseline assessment and PPI feedback received from them.   The program significantly improved the aerobic capacity and muscle strength in most of the participants. The patients also reported a significant increase in all parameters related to well being as assessed using the 36-SF questionnaire including increased energy, reduction in fatigue, emotional well-being, alleviation of pain, improved physical function and general health scores. This study clearly shows that such an intervention is beneficial to patients recovering from cancer treatment and will contribute significantly to improving their quality of life.