Radiotherapist oncologist, Dr Cutuli reminds us of the importance of sporting activity against cancer.
Sport is his hobby horse. Black belt in karate, specialist in breast tumors, ex-president of the French Society of Senology, this radiotherapist oncologist practices near Reims at the Icône center (North-East Cancerology and Oncotherapy Intergroup). We also owe Dr Cutuli more than a hundred scientific publications: “I have long been a Benedictine monk of research,” he confides with a laugh. Fifteen years ago, he launched an unusual activity: paddling women in remission from breast cancer in a Chinese canoe, the “dragon boat”. Since then, the idea has spread throughout France. Moving is essential to prevent cancer, but also during and after illness, as this pioneer reminds us these days at the National Oncology Congress (Ifods).
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Paris Match. What is the role of sport in prevention ?
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Dr. Bruno Cutuli. Regular physical activity reduces the risk of developing colon, breast or endometrial cancer by 20 to 25%. It probably also plays a role in other organs but this has not yet been studied. Physiologically, it modifies key parameters such as inflammation and insulin production. It also helps fight against excess weight, a significant risk factor, as for diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. There’s no point joining a gym if you hate it, it’s better to choose what you like: hiking, ping pong, dancing, tai chi… And that’s true whatever your age: there are more in addition to classes suitable for seniors, dance for example.
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And during illness? Doing sport seems absurd when you think about the exhaustion of patients…
However, it is what best counters treatment-related fatigue. Moving also prevents you from becoming weak by losing muscle or developing fat, which has inflammatory effects. The effort must be adjusted to each person, with the advice of a specialist, and activity sessions adapted to cancer are increasing. But you can also walk or go up and down stairs, which uses all the muscle groups in the legs.
“Moving after cancer reduces the risk of relapse”
What bug stung you when you suggested rowing after breast cancer?
Until now, this type of activity remained contraindicated because of the risk of edema. But a Canadian doctor has shown the benefits: with a suitable paddle, the movements rehabilitate the arm after the operation, and this in a warm atmosphere thanks to the mutual help of teammates. I co-founded the Ensemble pour Elles association, and we took our first crew to the Vogalonga regatta in Venice. An incredible human adventure and a real medical challenge: we were swimming against the tide!
More generally, moving after cancer reduces the risk of relapse and allows you to better recover from the side effects of treatments, such as certain muscle and joint pain. Without forgetting the psychological benefit, partly linked to endorphins. We reconcile with our body, we regain self-confidence… It’s not about aiming for the Olympic Games, but I recommend setting a nice goal, like a trip.
And you, what does karate bring you?
I started it late, around 32, but what passion! I trained with great Japanese masters and made friends with people from all walks of life. On the tatami, we are equal. Without this discipline, I would have struggled to fight so many battles against cancer.
