The practice of yoga would reduce the risk of recurrence of cancer

This work, unveiled at the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, is a hope for people who have overcome cancer for the first time but who fear recurrence. Doing yoga regularly (several times a week) would help limit inflammatory phenomena in the body. However, several studies have shown with certainty the link between chronic inflammation and cancer.

75 minutes of yoga per day, twice a week

The study authors followed more than 500 cancer survivors. Half of them had to take classes in hatha yoga, a gentle form of yoga, lasting 75 minutes, twice a week for four weeks. The other half had to follow therapeutic education courses during which they received advice on healthy lifestyles.

Over the course of the study, participants underwent blood tests on several occasions to assess a number of biological markers, including inflammation markers. Blood test results showed that people who did yoga had fewer markers of inflammation than those who didn’t. This is important data when we know that an inappropriate or poorly controlled inflammatory reaction promotes the occurrence of potentially carcinogenic abnormalities.

Towards a yoga prescription for cancer survivors?

“Oncologists should consider prescribing yoga for cancer survivors who suffer from inflammation which is known to be toxic to the body and increases the risk of progression, recurrence and secondary cancers.”the study authors said during the presentation of their research.

Another study conducted by scientists from the same university showed that the prescription of physical exercises to be done at home could improve the quality of sleep of people with cancer.

This work, which adds to so many others, shows the need to systematically integrate physical activity into the management of cancer patients.

Slide: 10 good reasons to take up yoga