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Cancer anxiety research program returns for spring hikes

UFV-led research is measuring impact of hiking in nature on cancer patients

Cancer survivors are once again being invited to step into the wilderness for a series of trail hikes.

Researchers from the University of the Fraser Valley are conducting a study to investigate the role of outdoor physical activity on anxiety in cancer survivors. This is the second time the study has been offered, following the success of the fall intake. It involves two weekly trail walks in the Chilliwack area over the course of eight weeks.

They will take place every Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. and every Saturday at 9 a.m., running May 5 to June 22.

READ MORE: Nature and exercise combine for UFV study

The hikes are run by a trained outdoor leader, with the support of UFV students.

There are some requirements to participate. You must be over the age of 18, cleared by your physician to exercise, and available for the times of the hikes (total about 2.5 hours per week). While the hiking is closest to Chilliwack, anyone who can make it to the hikes is welcome to join.

Participants also fill out very short questionnaires at the beginning and end of each hike to self-assess their anxiety and other factors. Hikers are encouraged to take a third walk or hike throughout the week, if possible.

For more information, email Iris.Lesser@ufv.ca.

READ MORE: Federal Government invests $10 million towards cervical cancer research


 

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Jessica Peters

About the Author: Jessica Peters

I began my career in 1999, covering communities across the Fraser Valley ever since.
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