Are there special precautions survivors should consider?
Certain issues for cancer survivors may prevent or affect their ability to exercise. Some effects of treatment may increase the risk for exercise-related problems. For instance:
• People with severe anemia (low red blood cell counts) should delay activity until the anemia is better.
• Those with weak immune systems should avoid public gyms and other public places until their white blood cell counts return to safe levels.
• People getting radiation should avoid swimming pools because chlorine may irritate the skin at the treatment area.
If you were not active before diagnosis, you should start with low-intensity activities and then slowly increase your activity level. Certain people should use extra caution to reduce their risk of falls and injuries: