Prostate Cancer Exercise

In Portland Oregon there is a three-year Oregon Health & Science University study, financed by the Lance Armstrong Foundation.

Study leaders hope to come up with an exercise program to benefit men dealing with prostate cancer who are on testosterone-lowering medications.

The men are divided into two study groups. One group is focused on strength training; the other on stretching and flexibility. They take hourlong classes three days a week in the new OHSU Center for Health & Healing.

Participants are asked for a one year commitment. Class sizes are relatively small, usually 10 to 15 people, and led by one or two certified exercise instructors. The men range in age from their 50s and into their 80s, and most of them are dealing with advanced stages of prostate cancer.

The strength-training classes use free weights only, no machines whatsoever.  The stretching classes incorporate gentle yoga, relaxation and breathing exercises. Cardiovascular exercises are not part of the study because, though they might have benefits, most of the men are on medications in which fatigue is a side effect.

They don't know data will emerge. The prostate cancer study is new territory.

The men are asked for feedback daily, to get an idea of when they can move them up and push them further.  They want to know where their limits are and what the benefits are.

Initial feedback is that the men are feeling much better, with less fatigue and an improved sense of well-being. And they're noticing nice improvements in their physiques.

Some were in better shape to begin with; the most out-of-shape people will benefit the most.

They hope studies such as this one will help get more evidence-based programs, like exercise programs, for prostate cancer survivors out into the community.

More Prostate Cancer Exercise

Also OHSU is beginning a study of acupuncture as a treatment for hot flashes for men with prostate cancer or prostate cancer survivors.