B.C. Cancer aims to incorporate exercise early in the treatment process for cancer patients, based on research indicating that “prehabilitation” through physical activity aids in long-term recovery. Dr. Lauren Capozzi, B.C. Cancer’s first cancer physiatrist, is spearheading the initiative to include exercise in the treatment plan for cancer patients in Kelowna.
Capozzi’s pioneering program in B.C. seeks to unite various specialists—such as physiotherapists, occupational therapists, dietitians, and speech therapists—into a collaborative team that commences working with patients immediately upon cancer diagnosis. According to Capozzi, this integrated team approach is crucial for optimizing patient care plans and reducing healthcare costs through effective coordination.
The cancer physiatry program led by Capozzi was launched in September, and patients can access it through referrals from their primary care physicians. This program is part of a broader effort to expand cancer physiatry services across the province, with 100 patient referrals received in the last five months.
Prehabilitation involves preparing cancer patients physically and managing their pain before treatment, as well as aiding in their recovery post-treatment. Capozzi highlighted the misconception that cancer rehabilitation starts only after treatment completion, emphasizing the benefits of initiating an exercise regimen immediately upon diagnosis to facilitate quicker recovery and a return to normal activities.
Capozzi mentioned a significant study from the New England Journal of Medicine last June, revealing that structured exercise significantly impacted colon cancer patients. The study found that after seven years, 90% of patients participating in a three-year exercise program were still alive. Capozzi aspires for B.C. to lead in integrating exercise into cancer care programs and is working towards expanding the program beyond Kelowna.