Lifestyle Management

Exercise for Prostate Cancer Patients

The American College of Sports Medicine recommends that all persons diagnosed with cancer engage in 150 min of moderately to vigorous intensity aerobic exercise and two resistance (strength) training sessions per week. It is also recommended to limit sedentary time (sitting, reclining) and engage in activity throughout your day.

The medical literature recommends that prostate cancer patients try to meet these guidelines pre- and post- treatment to facilitate recovery and help prevent any decline in their quality of life. Ideally, an exercise prescription should be individually tailored to each patient, taking into consideration their overall health. Regular exercise has been shown to help reduce and manage side effects of prostate cancer treatments  such as fatigue, weight gain, muscle loss, urinary incontinence, mood changes and sexual function.

We also offer a one-on-one exercise clinic with an Exercise Physiologist. The clinic includes a mandatory 1.5 hour group information session. The goal is to increase physical activity levels and improve overall health by supporting your long-term behavior change. Men will be seen within 4 weeks of attending the group session for a 45 minute appointment and then again at 3, 6 and 12 months. During the initial visit, body measurements will be taken and an assessment made of current exercise levels against national recommendations. Exercise options and differing exercise programs will be discussed and exercise-based goals will be set.

Please visit the “Session Dates” page for each location to see the time/date for the next available Module 3 Exercise session. If you would like to attend the clinic please contact the program coordinator.

Nutrition Advice for Prostate Cancer Patients

There is a wealth of dietary information available on the internet and in the news. However, it can be confusing and even contradictory. What should you eat? What should you avoid? What supplements should you take, if any? Which diet should you follow?

You will learn which diet and dietary supplements may:

1. Lower the risk of cancer progression.
2. Help to mitigate side effects of treatment (i.e. bone and muscle loss, etc.).
3. Be optimal for managing common problems related to prostate cancer treatment.

We offer a 1.5-hour group information nutrition session and up to 6 one-on-one clinical appointments for all men with prostate cancer. Partners and family members are also welcome. These sessions/appointments are led by a Registered Dietitian (RD) from the BC Cancer.

Please visit the “Session Dates” page for each location to see the time/date for the next available Module 3 Nutrition education session. If you would like to attend the session or book a clinical appointment please contact the program coordinator.

View our Nutrition and Prostate Cancer infographic