Dr. Amar Rewari on NBC News: How Prehabilitation Improves Cancer Recovery

Dr. Amar Rewari Discusses Prehabilitation on NBC News

In a recent appearance on NBC News, Dr. Amar Rewari, a radiation oncologist and adjunct assistant professor at Johns Hopkins University, discussed a growing trend in cancer care known as "prehabilitation."

While rehabilitation focuses on recovery after surgery, prehabilitation is all about preparing the body before treatment begins. Dr. Rewari explained that this proactive approach—which typically involves a combination of exercise, nutritional support, and stress reduction—can significantly improve patient outcomes.

Key Takeaways from the Interview:

• Faster Recovery: New research indicates that patients who participate in prehabilitation programs often spend fewer days in the hospital post-surgery.

• Fewer Complications: Preparing the body for the physical stress of surgery can lead to fewer post-operative complications.

• Universal Benefits: While recent studies focused on colorectal cancer, Dr. Rewari noted that similar benefits have been observed in patients with breast, lung, and esophageal cancers.

Practical Advice for Patients: Dr. Rewari emphasized that even without a formal hospital program, patients can take steps to "prehab" on their own. He suggests simple measures such as:

• Exercise: Incorporating a brisk 45-minute walk into your daily routine.

• Nutrition: Increasing protein intake (e.g., 30 grams twice a day) to build strength.

"I think the message is universal," Dr. Rewari stated. "We should really look at exercise as its own form of medicine."

Watch the full clip above to learn more about how preparing for surgery can lead to a healthier recovery.