Beyond Treatment: The Rise of Cancer Prehabilitation and Holistic Support
For many, a cancer diagnosis feels like a sudden plunge into a whirlwind of appointments, tests, and looming treatment. But what if there was a way to prepare – not just physically, but emotionally, financially, and practically – for the journey ahead? A growing movement in cancer care, known as prehabilitation, or “prehab,” is doing just that, and it’s poised to reshape how we support patients in Aotearoa New Zealand and beyond.
The ‘Terrible Void’ and the Power of Preparation
Dr. Marta Seretny, an anaesthetist at Auckland Hospital, and Dr. Hanna van Waart, an exercise scientist, are leading the charge in developing comprehensive prehab programs tailored to the unique needs of cancer patients. Their work stems from a simple, yet profound observation: the often-lengthy gap between diagnosis and treatment is a missed opportunity. “Patients may be waiting weeks, even months, to begin treatment,” explains Dr. Seretny. “We want to use that time proactively, building resilience and empowering individuals before the physiological stress of treatment begins.”
This isn’t just about physical fitness. While exercise is a cornerstone of prehab – with studies showing it can reduce fatigue, improve treatment adherence, and even impact tumor microenvironment – the holistic approach encompasses a much wider range of support.
Exercise as Medicine: A Growing Body of Evidence
Dr. van Waart emphasizes the transformative power of exercise. “Exercise is basically medicine. If this was a pill, we would have prescribed it to everyone already,” she states. Research from the Netherlands, where Dr. van Waart previously conducted research, demonstrates significant benefits of physical activity during chemotherapy, particularly for breast and colon cancer patients. A 2023 meta-analysis published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine confirmed that exercise interventions during cancer treatment are associated with reduced fatigue, anxiety, and improved quality of life.
Pro Tip: Even gentle exercise, like walking or yoga, can make a difference. Talk to your healthcare team about what’s appropriate for your situation.
Beyond Fitness: Addressing Financial and Emotional Wellbeing
The Auckland-based initiative recognizes that cancer impacts every facet of life. Patient feedback consistently highlights financial concerns – managing treatment costs, potential income loss, and supporting families – as a major source of stress. Prehab programs aim to connect patients with resources to navigate these challenges, including health insurance assessments and information on government support.
Equally crucial is psychological and pastoral care. “There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to mental health support,” says Dr. Seretny. “We want to ensure supportive care is integrated into the standard cancer journey, providing ongoing access to psychologists and counselors, even after treatment concludes.”
The Importance of Cultural Sensitivity and Equity
Recognizing existing inequities in healthcare, Dr. Seretny and Dr. van Waart are prioritizing a Māori-focused approach. “We want to build a program that’s not just good for everyone, but specifically addresses the needs of Māori communities,” explains Dr. Seretny. This involves collaborating with Māori health providers and incorporating culturally relevant practices into the program design.
Did you know? Culturally tailored cancer support programs have been shown to improve engagement and outcomes for Indigenous populations.
The Role of Peer Support and Shared Experiences
Connecting with others who have faced similar diagnoses can be incredibly empowering. Patients often express a desire to speak with someone who understands their experience firsthand – to ask about side effects, coping strategies, and what to expect. Prehab programs can facilitate these connections, fostering a sense of community and reducing feelings of isolation.
Future Trends in Cancer Prehabilitation
The future of cancer prehab is likely to see several key developments:
- Personalized Programs: Advances in genomics and data analytics will enable highly individualized prehab plans based on a patient’s specific cancer type, genetic profile, and overall health status.
- Remote Monitoring and Telehealth: Wearable sensors and telehealth platforms will allow healthcare providers to remotely monitor patients’ progress and adjust their prehab programs accordingly.
- Integration with Digital Health Tools: Mobile apps and online resources will provide patients with access to exercise routines, nutritional guidance, and mental health support.
- Expansion to All Cancer Types: Currently focused on breast cancer and sarcomas, prehab programs will expand to encompass a wider range of cancers, each with tailored interventions.
- Increased Funding and Accessibility: Greater investment in prehab research and implementation will make these programs more widely available to patients across Aotearoa New Zealand and globally.
FAQ: Cancer Prehabilitation
Q: What is cancer prehabilitation?
A: Prehabilitation is a proactive approach to preparing patients for cancer treatment, focusing on improving their physical, emotional, and financial wellbeing before treatment begins.
Q: Who can benefit from prehabilitation?
A: Most people diagnosed with cancer can benefit from prehab, regardless of their age or fitness level.
Q: Is prehabilitation covered by health insurance?
A: Coverage varies depending on your insurance plan. It’s best to check with your provider.
Q: Where can I find prehabilitation programs in New Zealand?
A: The Auckland Hospital initiative is currently in development. Contact your oncologist or cancer care team for information on available resources.
Q: Can I start prehabilitation on my own?
A: While some aspects, like gentle exercise, can be started independently, it’s crucial to consult with your healthcare team to ensure it’s safe and appropriate for your specific situation.
This shift towards proactive, holistic cancer care represents a significant step forward in empowering patients and improving outcomes. By addressing the needs of the whole person – not just the disease – we can help individuals navigate their cancer journey with greater resilience, confidence, and hope.
Want to learn more? Explore resources from the Cancer Research UK and the National Cancer Institute.
Share your thoughts! What aspects of prehabilitation resonate most with you? Leave a comment below.
