IMPACT OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON THE QUALITY OF LIFE OF CANCER PATIENTS

Abstract

Introduction: Physical activity has been shown to have a significant impact on the quality of life of cancer patients, as indicated by several studies that analyzed the relationship between regular exercise and the well-being of these individuals. It was noted that physical interventions contributed to improving physical fitness, reducing symptoms of fatigue and promoting emotional stability. Thus, it was evident that, by providing psychological, social and physical support, physical activity was considered an important adjuvant in cancer treatments, with positive effects on the overall health of patients. Objective: The present study aimed to compile and analyze, through a systematic review of the literature, the scientific evidence that pointed to the benefits of physical activity on the quality of life of patients undergoing cancer treatments, offering an overview that supported the integration of these interventions into clinical practice and served as a basis for future research. Methodology: The review followed the PRISMA checklist, using scientific articles, studies and books published in the last 10 years, in accordance with rigorous methodological criteria. The PubMed, Scielo and Web of Science databases were consulted, applying five descriptors: physical activity, exercise, quality of life, cancer patients and impact. The following inclusion criteria were adopted: studies that focused on physical activity interventions in cancer patients, studies that evaluated outcomes related to quality of life and publications that underwent critical evaluation of their methods. On the other hand, studies based on descriptive narrative review, articles not peer-reviewed and investigations that presented inadequate or non-representative samples of the cancer population were excluded. Results: The results showed a significant improvement in physical fitness, mental health and reduction of adverse symptoms resulting from cancer treatments. It was observed that the physical intervention enabled the reduction of fatigue and promoted the increase in functional capacity and emotional support, corroborating the positive influence of exercise on the well-being of patients. Conclusion: It was concluded that regular physical activity was essential for improving the quality of life of cancer patients, consolidating itself as a complementary strategy that enhanced therapeutic results and offered a better experience during treatment. This summary reinforced the importance of incorporating physical exercise programs into clinical routines and encouraged future research to deepen the mechanisms underlying the observed benefits. Physical activity. Exercise. Quality of life. Cancer patients and impact.