Fight against cancer: How movement improves the survival of patients!

Fight against cancer: How movement improves the survival of patients!

The way back to life after a cancer diagnosis is often rocky and associated with many challenges. Every year, around 500,000 people in Germany receive the devastating message to be ill. However, progress in treatment means that around two thirds of those affected can achieve a survival rate of over five years. The somatic and psychological consequences of the disease can significantly restrict the quality of life. In this context, movement therapy is becoming increasingly important.

An example of this is the case of tennis player Philipp, who is ill. Despite the difficult diagnosis, his doctor strongly advises him to continue to play tennis. Philipp is looking for advice in the "German Competence Center Competitive Sports and Cancer (Klik)", which was founded in 2024 at the Cologne University Hospital. Under the direction of Dr. Nora Zoth receives Philipp the necessary support and now plays tennis again. Such return examples are the result of targeted treatment that focuses on sport.

The importance of movement therapy

movement therapy is one of the most promising non-medical interventions in oncology. Prof. Dr. Freerk Baumann, head of the oncological movement medicine at the Cologne University Hospital, emphasizes the positive effects that can be achieved using movement therapy. In recent years, the positive effects of physical activity have been more clearly defined on various health aspects of cancer patients.

According to a meta -analysis, movement is able to reduce anxiety and depression, for example, and to improve the health -related quality of life. Cancer therapies often cause considerable side effects, but adapted training can help to alleviate them. Research shows that even specific symptoms, such as fatigue symptoms, can be alleviated by movement therapy.

results and challenges

The challenge of implementing movement therapy in oncology nationwide should not be underestimated. Supply structures should be created for implementation in order to use the positive effect in the width of patient care. The evidence for improving the quality of life and the physical functions is already very high, but there is a lack of specific recommendations for sports. Moderate endurance training and strength training are recommended to promote the positive effect on health.

In addition to the individual challenges that every patient must master, such as the Paralympic swimmer Elena Krawzow, who fought back after a tumor in the brain and won again in 2024, regular coordination with doctors and sports scientists also plays a central role. The uncertainty in individual treatment requires close cooperation between everyone involved in order to achieve the best possible results.