Living Well: Cancer Fitness Treatment

SOUTH BEND, In.- There are 8.1 million cancer survivors in the United States, according to the American Cancer Society.
In Indiana alone, there are over 365 thousand survivors. Those individuals living with cancer are often in need of support.
Some are finding it through oncology fitness at Beacon Health System.

Cancer fitness classes at this facility have been around for over 15 years as part of the best medicine classes, which are designed for those with unique health conditions or needs.

Doctors say they wanted to offer something for those who are coming out of treatment or finishing therapy kind of a continuing way to continue their exercise in a structured setting, without being off on their own. This helps give them accountability and bring guidance which was one of the main goals for starting the best medicine program.

The classes work to strengthen the body and mind, as one of the biggest things cancer patients have to face is fatigue.

Experts say keeping patients moving and building cardiorespiratory fitness helps to prevent other side effects. It can also bring patients a sense of community and not feel so alone when they are recovering or facing treatment.