Cancer treatments save more lives than ever, but they often cause side effects that can interrupt therapy and reduce its effectiveness. Measuring activity offers a new way to monitor how patients are doing during treatment. The number of steps a person takes, tracked through a smartphone, can provide early warning signs: a sudden drop in daily activity often indicates declining health and a higher risk of hospitalization. Recognizing these changes early allows timely intervention and may help prevent complications. Exercise with a physiotherapist during treatment strengthens patients, helps them tolerate chemotherapy better, and supports recovery. Research in people with colorectal and ovarian cancer shows that this is safe, feasible, and valuable. Regular physical activity can increase the chance of successful treatment and improve quality of life. Simple tools such as smartphones and exercise programs can make cancer care more personalized and effective.
Calvin Brouwer (1995) obtained his medical degree in 2019 and subsequently worked as a physician at Zuyderland Medical Center. In 2021, he began his PhD research with the Exercise Oncology group at Radboud university medical center under the supervision of Laurien Buffart. He currently works at VieCuri Medical Center and will start his Internal Medicine residency in 2026.