The impact of exercise and physical activity on health is well known and universally touted as an important element in health promotion, quality of life and disease prevention. When it comes to oncology and the outcomes patients experience in this setting, the impact of exercise is foundational and important across all stages of survivorship. In the support and management of people living with cancer, the role of physical activity is one that any practitioner interested in supporting people living with cancer should be acutely aware of and effective to assist in promotion and adoption. Through understanding the impact of activity on physiology in cancer patients, a deeper understanding of malignancy and its manifestation as well as treatment becomes clearer. The induced changes in metabolism that result from activity and consistent exercise are fascinating and highly impactful in cancer care. Several systemic factors relevant to cancer progression are affected by exercise and fitness. These factors are broad and include inflammatory signaling, insulin/glucose metabolism, immune function, hormonal shifts, oxidative burden, and genomic stability.
Learning Objectives
By the end of this lecture, the clinician will be aware that:
- Review evidence for physical activity’s effect on cancer outcomes including survival, symptom management and quality of life
- Review physiological aspects associated with cancer progression that may be positively impacted by physical activity
- Review risks associated with physical activity in the context of cancer dependent on type and stage
- Explore techniques and resources to support patients to make behavioral changes related to successful implementation of physical activity.
CE Credits
CONO: Category A – 1.00 credit (General)
British Columbia: Category C – 1.00 credit
AANP: 1.00 credit (General)
OANP/OBNM: For Oregon attendees seeking OBNM approved CE credits, please note that this event has not been submitted for approval to the OBNM. CE certificate will be issued upon individual request.
Dr. Dugald Seely, ND, MSc.
Dr. Dugald Seely, ND, MSc. – Dr. Seely is a naturopathic doctor and clinician scientist, specializing in integrative cancer care. Dr. Seely blends evidence-based approaches in clinical practice and is active in the conduct of synthesis and clinical research. As CEO of the Centre for Health Innovation (CHI) and executive director of the Patterson Institute for Integrative Oncology Research, Dr. Seely is pioneering a model of integrative, evidence informed naturopathic oncology. A graduate of CCNM’s Toronto campus in 2003, Dr. Seely has 20 years of clinical experience; has published over 100 papers and book chapters; and has run a thriving multi-disciplinary clinic based in Ottawa over the past 12 years. Dr. Seely is happy to share insights related to clinical practice as well as to the business of running a successful clinic.
