Promoting exercise in patients with cancers of the head and neck during COVID-19 and beyond

Abstract

In recent years, the benefits of exercise in patients with cancer have increasingly been recognised. Unfortunately, patients with, and survivors of, cancers of the head and neck often face a constellation of symptomatic and nutritional obstacles that can interfere with their ability to adhere to structured exercise regimens. The spread of COVID-19 has only added to these challenges. In this Viewpoint, the authors detail the impediments faced by patients with cancers of the head and neck in obtaining sufficient exercise, review the evidence supporting the benefits of exercise in patients with cancer and discuss interventions to promote exercise in this patient population.