Abreast in a boat--a race against breast cancer

Physical activity affects the production, metabolism and excretion of the female hormones, as well as energy balance, and these factors may be linked to the lower risk of breast cancer in habitually active women.4' Formal exercise programs for women with breast cancer are few and limited to small groups of patients, although the general consensus is that exercise helps to maintain functional capacity in these patients.es Current opinion suggests that avoidance of strenuous activity is necessary to prevent lymphedema after treatment for breast cancer, although some women with breast cancer have recently begun to challenge this taboo.9 In fact, there are many reasons to believe that upper body exercise has a role in recovery from breast cancer and lymphedema because it can improve range of motion and reverse muscle atrophy, activate skeletal muscle (which may help pump lymph),10 stimulate the immune system" and reset the sympathetic tone of the lymphatic vessels." The impact of this experience on these women has been overwhelming, the physical changes barely keeping pace with the changes in psyche. To other people with breast cancer, the women have become role models, giving inspiration to lead full and active lives. We have created a training manual" with suggestions for other groups who are beginning a similar paddling program elsewhere. The team has also travelled to spread the message that "there is life after breast cancer." The dragon boat phenomenon has become attractive to other women, and as of June 1998 there were 10 teams in Canada, more in United States and a new team in New Zealand. The Abreast in a Boat Society has been formed to help people living with breast cancer understand that they can lead full, active lives despite the physical limitations imposed by this disease. The society seeks to improve the quality of life of women with breast cancer while research is being done to find a cure. With the help of charitable foundations and corporate sponsors, the society raises awareness about breast cancer and encourages the pursuit of a cure.