The Health & Fitness Association (HFA) and the American Cancer Society (ACS) have officially announced a strategic alliance alongside The HFA Foundation to expand access to evidence-based exercise oncology programs across the United States. The initiative aims to help cancer patients and survivors improve physical function, manage side effects, and enhance overall quality of life.
Surging Demand vs. Limited Qualified Professionals
Advancements in medical treatments have significantly raised cancer survival rates, bringing the number of cancer survivors in the U.S. to more than 18 million—a figure expected to continue growing. However, post-diagnosis physical care remains a substantial challenge:
- High Incidence of Side Effects: According to official HFA statements, nearly 70% of individuals living with or beyond cancer experience physical side effects stemming from treatment.
- Proven Benefits of Movement: Research shows that targeted exercise interventions can mitigate treatment-related side effects, build physical strength, and support emotional well-being.
- Resource Shortage: Despite clear scientific support, access to fitness professionals specifically trained in exercise oncology remains severely limited across the nation.
Key Initiatives: A Two-Pronged Strategy
To address the gap between medical knowledge and accessible care, the alliance is launching a comprehensive two-part action plan:
Nationwide Awareness Campaign: Raising awareness among the public, patients, and healthcare providers regarding the benefits of physical activity during and after cancer treatment.
Exercise Oncology Grants Program:
- Funding & Administration: Funded directly by the American Cancer Society and administered by The HFA Foundation.
- Scope of Support: Financial grants will be awarded to selected fitness facilities to support staff training, program development, and the implementation of specialized services.
- Collaborative Learning Network: Participating facilities will join a structured network to share best practices and establish scalable, standardized service models.
Executive Insights: Closing the Gap in Supportive Care
Leadership from both organizations underscored the impact of the new partnership:
Dr. Arif Kamal, Chief Patient Officer at the American Cancer Society:
“The future of cancer care depends not only on scientific breakthroughs, but also on proven supportive care designed around the life of the person living with cancer. Staying active before, during, and after treatment can improve strength, reduce side effects, and support emotional well-being.”
Greta Wagner, Interim President & CEO of HFA:
“This alliance seeks to close the gap between what we know works and what people can actually access, equipping fitness professionals with the tools and training necessary to serve their communities.”
Amy Bantham, Executive Director of The HFA Foundation:
“By investing in workforce development and supporting member facilities in delivering safe and effective programs, this grant program will allow more people to benefit from movement as part of their recovery.”
Industry Perspective: Converging Fitness and Healthcare
In a recent social media statement, the American Cancer Society reaffirmed its commitment to expanding access to qualified, evidence-based exercise programming to improve health outcomes for cancer survivors.
This cross-sector collaboration marks an important shift in the health and fitness industry, as commercial facilities expand beyond traditional conditioning to become key delivery points for medical rehabilitation and supportive care. By connecting health networks with community fitness infrastructure, the initiative establishes a scalable model for integrating physical activity directly into oncology care.
