A major global review finds that structured exercise can significantly lessen some of the hardest side effects of cancer treatment. The analysis, led by researchers at Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University and published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, surveyed hundreds of studies from 2012 to 2024. For Thai readers, the findings offer practical, culturally resonant guidance for integrating physical activity into cancer care.
Cancer treatments such as chemotherapy and radiotherapy can take a heavy toll on the body and mind. In Thailand, cancer remains a leading health challenge affecting families and the health system. Until now, non-pharmaceutical support like exercise lacked clear, nationwide standards to guide clinicians and patients in recovery plans.
The review synthesized data from 80 high- to moderate-quality studies, drawing on 485 associations from randomized trials. It examined diverse exercise forms, including aerobic workouts, resistance training, high-intensity interval training, tai chi, and yoga. Across these modalities, patients who engaged in regular, supervised activity reported markedly fewer treatment-related side effects than those receiving standard care or no exercise.
Key findings show reduced incidence of heart and nerve damage linked to chemotherapy. The review also highlights improvements in brain fog, shortness of breath, and overall stamina. Beyond physical benefits, participants experienced better sleep, mood, social engagement, and quality of life. Importantly, preoperative exercise was associated with fewer complications after surgery, shorter hospital stays, and lower mortality risk.
According to researchers, these results support incorporating exercise into cancer care protocols with moderate to high confidence. The evidence indicates significant reductions in adverse events and meaningful gains in body composition, biomarkers, and well-being when activity is properly tailored and supervised.
Experts outside the study welcome the implications for practice. A Cancer Research UK information nurse noted that the review adds to the case for exercise helping to reduce treatment side effects and protect long-term health. She also acknowledged patient concerns about starting or increasing activity during treatment and advised a patient-centered approach, encouraging discussion with the cancer care team.
For Thailand, the study invites a rethink of current cancer care pathways. Thai hospitals have made strides in treatment innovations but often lag in formally integrating lifestyle interventions. Establishing evidence-based, accessible exercise programs could ease patient burden and improve recovery, aligning with national health goals. Some institutions in Bangkok and other cities have piloted physiotherapy and gentle exercise classes, yet nationwide policy lags behind Europe and North America.
Thai culture values family involvement and community harmony, which can support exercise adoption. Familiar activities such as walking groups, gentle yoga, and tai chi can fit naturally into daily routines and family routines, helping patients feel supported and motivated.
The report signals a shift away from the old notion that cancer patients should “save their strength.” When tailored and supervised, exercise is safe and beneficial even during intensive treatment or advanced disease.
Looking forward, Thai policy-makers and clinicians may revise cancer care guidelines to reflect these findings. Key questions include how to scale personalized exercise prescriptions, ensure safety through multidisciplinary teams, and address lingering fears about activity during treatment. Education campaigns for clinicians and the public will be essential to dispel myths and encourage uptake.
For patients and families in Thailand, the message is hopeful and practical: talk with your healthcare team about safe ways to stay active during treatment. Hospitals should prioritize supervised, evidence-based exercise options as part of standard care. Even modest activity—walking, chair-based exercises, or gentle stretching—can support recovery when embedded into daily life with family support.
As research continues to illuminate non-pharmaceutical strategies, exercise stands out as a low-cost, high-impact tool to improve cancer outcomes and holistic wellbeing for Thai patients and communities.