However, we can lessen the burden of these treatment impacts through one key factor – early intervention or “prehab” at diagnosis, to prepare for the journey ahead.

Whilst treatment to remove the disease is essential, it sometimes does not result in overall wellness. We know with cancer treatment there is an anticipated decline in function, muscle loss, and other negative effects on the body. Identifying and managing these symptoms as they arise can avoid making the recovery much longer, and more stressful both physically, emotionally and financially.

The traditional model of cancer rehabilitation is where our CanConquer team helps people in their recovery. Whilst this is effective, it’s more a reactive strategy, rather than being proactive in avoiding the unwanted impairments that may have occurred. Limb swelling, fatigue, loss of strength and cardiotoxicity can all result from surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation.

CanConquer’s mission is to use evidence-based screening tools to capture baseline physical function, and identify the side effects much earlier. A paradigm shift from rehab as we have known it, staying one step ahead!

What we can measure, we can manage. This may involve compression garments, lymphatic drainage, precise exercise therapy to protect the hearttissue, maintain and even increase muscle mass. Additionally, assisting the effectiveness of treatments and the ability to complete the full treatment plan.

It’s more than saying “you need to exercise”. Oncology patients require a supervised targeted intervention for a positive result. This is where we change the trajectory of cancer related weaknesses and can improve survival outcomes of all those affected by cancer.