Complementary Therapy and Exercise in Patients With MPNs

Ruben Mesa, M.D., director of the UT Health San Antonio Cancer Center, discusses complementary therapy for patients with myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs).

Even on standard MPN therapy, such as JAK inhibitors, many patients will still have residual issues, such as fatigue and itching, so complementary therapies may be of help. Currently, Mesa’s team is investigating the effectiveness of such therapies. Meanwhile, physical activity has been known to improve quality of life in patients undergoing cancer treatment. However, it is important that patients don’t overdo it and get the approval of their health care team before starting a new workout regimen.