Michael Douglas' health update must still be on the up-and-up since the actor was spotted jogging to his gym in New York City on Monday. Photographers snapped the throat cancer survivor running on the streets and while Douglas looked in good health after bouncing back from a year-long battle with throat cancer, is exercise even safe after undergoing cancer treatment?
DOCS: EXERCISE AFTER CANCER, LIKE ANY, BENEFICIAL
According to cancer support website, Macmillan.org, exercise after cancer is much like exercising at any other point in life. The site says exercising after undergoing cancer treatment is one of the "many positive changes" people may want to make in their lives and can contribute to losing weight and an overall feeling of being fitter, happier and stronger.
EXERCISE FOR CANCER SURVIVORS IS "HARDER"
"It’s often difficult enough for people without health problems to increase their physical activity," says MacMillian. "Following a cancer experience it’s likely to be a lot harder. You may feel you don’t have the energy or willpower to do exercise, that you don’t know where to start or that it’s too late. But it’s never too late to start."
DOUGLAS IN FULL RECOVERY AFTER THROAT CANCER
After being diagnosed with stage IV throat cancer in August 2010, Douglas underwent cancer treatment and endured severe weight loss which left him weak and frail. Doctors counteracted the effects of chemotherapy and radiation treatment by putting him on a special weight gain diet and in January of this year, doctors confirmed the tumor was gone.
WHAT'S NEXT FOR MICHAEL DOUGLAS HEALTH-WISE?
Post-treatment, Michael's doctors have advised monthly screenings to fend off the tumor's return and he admits he's "grateful" for the role cancer has played in his life - Bringing into focus the importance of family, friends and health.
CANCER PATIENTS, SURVIVORS SHOULD SEEK MEDICAL ADVICE
"It’s always important to get advice from your doctor about your exercise plan before you start," advises MacMillian. "[But] there are some general things you’ll need to be careful about." (Read them all here)
PROVISIONS FOR ANY EXERCISE ROUTINE
Most of the provisions for exercising after cancer treatment are the same for those unexposed to chemotherapy or radiation and include keeping ankles safe with supportive shoe gear, staying hydrated and staying aware of the body by being mindful of any pain, injury or inconsistencies with breathing.
PROVISIONS FOR EXERCISE AFTER CANCER
Specific provisions for safe exercise after cancer include protecting the body from infection while undergoing treatment, or shortly after concluding treatment, and working with a doctor to monitor levels of red and white blood cell count. While Douglas makes healthier choices for commuting to the gym, his overall outlook on fitness is one that's given him a better resolve for himself - And his wife, Catherine Zeta-Jones and kids.
DOUGLAS: "CANCER DOESN'T CARE ABOUT OSCARS"
"Cancer doesn't care how many Oscars you've won," Douglas said recently of his improving health. "Or how many tough guys you've played."
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