Importancia de la actividad física en pacientes oncológicos

Abstract

Introduction: Cancer (CA) constitutes the chronic non-communicable disease that causes the most deaths. Health-related quality of life (HRQOL) is affected by the ravages of tumors and the adverse effects of drugs and procedures such as surgeries, chemotherapies, and radiotherapies. Objective: To determine the importance of physical activity in cancer patients. Methodology: A systematic review with a quantitative approach was conducted. Databases for gathering scientific articles included Web of Science, Scopus, Taylor & Francis, and PubMed. The selection of articles was illustrated in the flow chart provided in the PRISMA statement. Results: It was evidenced that physical activity does constitute an essential coadjuvant element in the therapy of patients with cancer, showing a statistically significant difference from those who do not perform it, especially in aerobic, endurance, and energy recovery physical activities. Its positive effects are noticeable in depression, anxiety, pain, muscular strength and endurance, fatigue, and physical, mental, and cognitive health. Conclusion: Physical activity reduces anxiety and depression, relieves pain, decreases fatigue, increases muscular strength and endurance, improves physical health, and has a positive impact on mental and cognitive health.