The Science of Exercise for Cancer | Kerry Courneya, PhD

In this interview podcast, Dr. Kerry Courneya discusses the critical role of exercise in cancer prevention and treatment. He emphasizes that exercise is no longer a fringe element but a pillar of cancer care, highlighting its benefits for the cardiovascular, muscular, and immune systems. Courneya addresses lifestyle changes for cancer prevention, including quitting smoking, managing obesity, and moderating alcohol consumption, with exercise being crucial for those not in these high-risk categories. He also explores the mechanisms through which exercise impacts cancer, such as improving blood vessel quality to tumors, increasing shear stress on circulating tumor cells, and stimulating the immune system. The discussion covers exercise intensity, the importance of muscle mass, and the psychological benefits of exercise for cancer patients, reinforcing the message that exercise can improve quality of life and potentially disease-free survival across the cancer care continuum.