A recent study reveals that while the number of cancer rehabilitation programs in Australia has more than doubled in the last decade, many survivors still struggle to access these vital services. Research conducted by La Trobe University, published in the Asia-Pacific Journal of Clinical Oncology, indicates that the number of cancer rehabilitation programs rose from 31 in 2015 to 76 in 2024. Despite this increase, the availability of such programs remains limited, with only one in 65 Australian cancer survivors able to enroll in oncology rehabilitation each year.
Dr. Amy Dennett, a researcher at La Trobe’s School of Allied Health, Human Services and Sport, and a physiotherapist at Eastern Health, emphasizes the importance of exercise as a crucial element in cancer recovery. “Exercise is one of the most powerful tools we have to help people recover from cancer,” Dr. Dennett stated. She highlighted that mounting evidence supports exercise’s role in addressing both the physical and psychological challenges that cancer survivors face, including fatigue, mood disturbances, physical function, and overall quality of life.
The study shows that nearly 44 percent of hospitals and cancer centers reported that a lack of funding hampers program sustainability. This financial barrier persists despite the increasing demand for cancer rehabilitation services. Dr. Dennett noted that in 2024, survey respondents identified a growing number of cancer survivors attending general rehabilitation programs (48 percent) and advocacy from oncologists (44 percent) as significant motivators for organizations to establish oncology rehabilitation offerings.
Emerging evidence suggests that exercise during cancer treatment can lead to decreased hospital admissions and shorter lengths of stay. This finding may encourage healthcare facilities to develop cancer rehabilitation programs that enhance patient outcomes while alleviating pressure on the healthcare system.
Cancer rehabilitation programs typically run three times per week for an average of 11 weeks. These programs incorporate exercise, nutrition education, fatigue management, and personalized self-management plans for survivors. While many programs are conducted in person, there is a notable shift towards offering telehealth services, with 45 percent of programs now utilizing video conferencing.
Despite the promising growth in rehabilitation services, the challenge of accessibility remains a critical issue. As healthcare professionals advocate for expanded access to exercise-based oncology rehabilitation, the need for sustainable funding and resources is paramount in ensuring that all cancer survivors can benefit from these essential programs.
