The Overlooked Tool in Cancer Care: Why Exercise Oncology Is the Future

“There are very few oncology fitness professionals right now—this field is still in its infancy. But the science is there, and the opportunity is massive.” — Dr. Jay Harness

For decades, oncology has revolved around surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation—powerful but often physically debilitating treatments. Healthcare professionals have advised patients to rest and conserve energy, assuming that physical exertion could be detrimental.

But what if this traditional approach is missing a critical piece of the puzzle?

What if movement itself could become an essential part of the treatment plan?

Though Australia has already made exercise a standard part of oncology care, the United States lags far behind. A major barrier? A lack of education. Over 90% of oncologists are unaware of the science supporting exercise in oncology.

Combine that with the fact that exercise programs aren’t covered by insurance, and you have a systemic gap that’s preventing patients from accessing life-saving support.

The statistics are sobering:

Only 21% of Americans exercise regularly
Among newly diagnosed cancer patients, that number drops to 14%

Dr. Jay Harness, a renowned surgical oncologist with 47 years of experience, has been at the forefront of breast cancer treatment. Over his career, he has witnessed firsthand the physical and emotional toll that cancer takes on patients.

However, seven years ago, his perspective shifted when he discovered Exercise Oncology—a significant approach that integrates physical activity into cancer prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Because if you had the opportunity to discover how to enhance cancer treatment outcomes and save more lives simply by integrating movement into your patient’s regimen, you would also do the same.

Dr. Jay Harness: A Leader in Cancer Care Innovation

With nearly five decades of experience in oncology, Dr. Jay Harness has been a leader in shaping modern breast cancer treatment. At a time when mastectomies were the norm, Dr. Harness became a pioneer of multidisciplinary breast cancer care, advocating for a team-based approach that included surgeons, oncologists, radiation specialists, and rehabilitation experts.

His groundbreaking publication, Breast Cancer Collaborative Management, transformed how doctors approach patient care and earned him the National Consortium of Breast Centers Impact Award.

Yet, despite his success in advancing surgical and medical interventions, he recognized an overlooked tool in cancer care: exercise.

What is Exercise Oncology?

For decades, cancer treatment has focused on surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation—powerful interventions designed to eliminate cancer cells. But what if we could do more? What if, instead of simply enduring treatment, patients could actively improve their outcomes with something as accessible as movement?

This is the foundation of Exercise Oncology—a growing field that integrates physical activity into cancer prevention, treatment, and survivorship care. It is based on a powerful truth: exercise is medicine for cancer patients.

Bridging the Gap Between Research and Practice

Seven years ago, Dr. Harness was introduced to Exercise Oncology through Andrea Leonard, founder of the Cancer Exercise Training Institute (CETI). The research was undeniable:

Exercise reduces cancer recurrence, enhances treatment tolerance, and improves survival rates by up to 40%

Despite this compelling evidence, most oncologists were unaware of its potential impact.

This revelation drove Dr. Harness to pivot his efforts toward bridging the gap between research and clinical application. Through CancerFitness.org, he is now dedicated to educating patients, oncologists, and other healthcare professionals on how movement can transform patient outcomes.

His mission? To make Exercise Oncology a standard adjunctive cancer treatment.

Why Exercise Oncology Matters for Healthcare Professionals & Patients

As a medical professional, your goal is to provide patients with the most effective, evidence-based care. Exercise Oncology is an adjunctive therapy—it’s an “evidence-based intervention” that:

Reduces side effects like fatigue, neuropathy, and nausea.
Enhances immune function, making patients more resilient to treatment.
Lowers stress, anxiety, and depression, improving mental well-being.
Preserves muscle strength and mobility, preventing long-term physical decline.
Reduces the risk of recurrence and boosts survival rates.

The Science Behind Exercise in Cancer Treatment

1. Prevention: Lowering Cancer Risk Through Movement

Studies show that regular physical activity lowers the risk of developing seven types of cancer—including breast, colon, and kidney cancer. Maintaining an active lifestyle can reduce overall cancer risk by 10-20%.

2. Treatment: Enhancing Patient Resilience

Patients undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery experience debilitating side effects. Research shows that exercise reduces inflammation, preserves muscle mass, and strengthens the immune system, allowing for better treatment tolerance.

3. Survivorship: Reducing Recurrence & Prolonging Life

Long-term cancer survivors face an increased risk of recurrence and secondary health issues, such as cardiovascular disease and metabolic disorders. Exercise can lower all-cause mortality by 25-40% and significantly reduce recurrence rates.

The Barriers to Adoption: Why Isn’t Exercise Standard in Cancer Treatment?

Despite overwhelming evidence supporting Exercise Oncology, it remains largely overlooked in standard cancer care. Several key barriers prevent it from becoming a routine part of treatment, leaving many patients without access to this life-changing intervention.

1. Lack of Awareness in the Medical Community

One of the biggest challenges is that most oncologists don’t know about the benefits of exercise for cancer patients. In fact, studies show that 90% of oncologists are unaware of the extensive research behind Exercise Oncology.

For decades, medical training emphasized the “rest and recover” model, advising patients to avoid physical exertion during treatment. While rest is necessary at times, this outdated mindset prevents many doctors from recommending exercise, despite evidence proving it reduces side effects, improves treatment tolerance, and enhances survival rates.

2. Insurance & Reimbursement Issues

Even when oncologists recognize the value of exercise, cost remains a major barrier. Unlike cardiac rehabilitation, which is covered by insurance, exercise programs for cancer patients receive little to no financial support.

Organizations like ASCO (American Society of Clinical Oncology), ACSM (American College of Sports Medicine), and the American Cancer Society are actively lobbying Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) for reimbursement codes, but progress has been slow. Without insurance coverage, many patients simply cannot afford structured exercise programs.

3. Cultural & Psychological Barriers

Many cancer patients fear that exercise could worsen their condition or increase fatigue. This misconception often prevents them from staying active during treatment.

Studies show that patients are far more likely to exercise if their oncologist encourages it. This highlights the urgent need for oncologists to receive better education on Exercise Oncology—so they can empower their patients to use movement as a tool for healing and survival.

The Future of Exercise Oncology: What’s Next?

The science is clear—exercise should be an adjunctive standard part of cancer treatment.

Yet, awareness, accessibility, and policy barriers continue to slow its adoption. Dr. Jay Harness and his team at CancerFitness.org are working tirelessly to change that, ensuring that every cancer patient has access to the life-saving benefits of movement.

Dr. Jay Harness and his colleagues are leading the charge to integrate Exercise Oncology into mainstream medical practice. His vision?

Medical schools incorporate Exercise Oncology into the curriculum.
Oncologists routinely prescribe physical activity to cancer patients.
Healthcare policies support insurance coverage for cancer rehabilitation programs
Fitness Centers & Health Clubs offer Men’s & Women’s Cancer Survivorship Programs.

The movement is already underway, and the medical community must catch up.

How You Can Lead the Change

As a healthcare professional, you have the opportunity to revolutionize patient care by incorporating Exercise Oncology into your practice.

For Oncologists, Physicians & Physical Therapists

Want to integrate exercise into your treatment plans?

Stay updated on Exercise Oncology research.
Educate your patients on the benefits of movement.
Partner with certified oncology exercise specialists.

For Healthcare Executives & Policymakers

Want to shape the future of cancer care?

Advocate for insurance coverage of exercise rehabilitation programs.
Integrate Exercise Oncology into hospital and clinic protocols.
Support continued research and funding in this field.

For Cancer Patients & Survivors

If you’re living with cancer, exercise can be one of the most powerful tools in your recovery and long-term health. Here’s how to take action:

Ask your doctor about safe exercise programs tailored to your condition. Movement should be personalized, just like your treatment plan.
Join community-based programs designed for cancer survivors, like LIVESTRONG at the YMCA or Dragon Boat Racing. These programs provide physical, emotional, and social support.
Visit CancerFitness.org to learn more about how exercise can help you improve your strength, reduce fatigue, and enhance your quality of life.

The future of Exercise Oncology is in our hands. Let’s make movement a standard part of cancer care—together.

Join the Movement to Transform Cancer Care

The shift toward Exercise Oncology starts with informed professionals like you. By embracing this evidence-based approach, we can redefine cancer care—making movement a standard part of treatment and survivorship.

Learn more and get involved at CancerFitness.org.

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Enhancing Cancer Treatment: The Growth of Exercise in Oncology to Improve Patient Treatment