By: Emma Yasinski | December 07, 2025 | 6 min. read
Summary
- Early findings from Sylvester’s LIFE-L study were presented at the 2025 ASH conference.
- The research team found that more than 80% of lymphoma patients were willing and able to participate in a virtual diet and exercise program to reduce treatment burden.
- Patients who followed the online program reported fewer symptoms like fatigue, anxiety and pain.
It’s no secret that cancer treatment can come with a range of side effects. During lymphoma treatment, some of those adverse effects can be so severe that patients have to stop or slow treatment.Melissa Lopez, Ph.D., RDN, a postdoctoral associate in the CRANE Lab at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center, part of University of Miami Miller School of Medicine, offered new findings that she presented, on behalf of a multidisciplinary research team, at the American Society of Hematology Annual Meeting, Dec. 6-9,2025,in Orlando. The results showed that a virtual diet and exercise program is a feasible strategy for minimizing side effects and increasing treatment retention.
LIFE-L Study Shows Lifestyle Intervention Improves Cancer treatment Tolerance
Table of Contents
!Dr. Craig Moskowitz in white clinic coat
Dr. Craig Moskowitz
Forty-four of those patients received immediate access to a virtual diet and exercise program designed to help them maintain their fitness and reduce the burden of side effects so that they can tolerate their prescribed cancer treatment regimen. Twenty-eight participants were placed on a waitlist control group to allow for comparison with the intervention group.
“Our goal with LIFE-L is to show that lifestyle interventions aren’t just for prevention or post-treatment. They can make a real difference during treatment. if we can help patients feel stronger and reduce side effects, we’re not only improving quality of life. we’re supporting them in completing all of their prescribed therapy, wich is critical for outcomes,” said Dr. Crane.
Study Participants Report Fewer Negative Symptoms
The program included weekly,online coaching sessions wi
Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center Sees Increased Physician Referrals to Supervised Exercise Program
A supervised exercise program at Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer center is gaining traction,with physicians increasingly referring their patients to the initiative. Dr. Melissa Lopez-Pentecost highlighted the program’s success and the crucial role physicians play in connecting patients with this beneficial resource. https://news.cancer.ufl.edu/2024/12/07/sylvester-exercise-program-gains-traction-with-physician-referrals/
The Growing Recognition of Cancer and Exercise
The program’s increasing popularity reflects a growing understanding of the benefits of exercise for cancer patients. Lifestyle medicine, including supervised exercise and nutrition guidance, is becoming increasingly integrated into comprehensive cancer care. Research consistently demonstrates that physical activity can improve quality of life, reduce fatigue, and even enhance treatment outcomes for individuals undergoing cancer treatment. https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/diet-physical-activity
Key Stakeholders: the Role of Physicians
Dr. Lopez-Pentecost emphasized the importance of physician involvement, stating, “It’s been very, very rewarding to see the physicians referring patients. The physicians are key stakeholders in all of this.” Their referrals are vital for ensuring that patients are aware of and have access to this valuable resource.
Sylvester’s Comprehensive Approach
Sylvester Comprehensive cancer Center, part of the University of Florida Health, is a leading cancer center dedicated to providing cutting-edge treatment and supportive care. The supervised exercise program is just one component of their holistic approach, which also includes advancements in cancer research, led by experts like Dr. craig Moskowitz and Dr. Tracy Crane. https://www.sylvestercancer.org/
Looking Ahead: ASH 2025 and Beyond
The program’s progress will likely be further discussed at upcoming conferences, such as ASH 2025 (American Society of Hematology).Continued research and collaboration between physicians and exercise specialists will be crucial for expanding access to these types of programs and improving outcomes for cancer patients. The focus on lifestyle medicine and integrating exercise into standard cancer care is expected to grow in the coming years.
key Takeaways:
* increased Referrals: Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer center’s supervised exercise program is experiencing a rise in physician referrals.
* Physician Importance: Physicians are considered key stakeholders in connecting patients with the program.
* benefits of Exercise: Exercise is increasingly recognized for its positive impact on cancer patients’ quality of life and treatment outcomes.
* Holistic Care: Sylvester offers a comprehensive approach to cancer care, including exercise, nutrition, and advanced research.
tags: ASH 2025, cancer and exercise, cancer research, Dr. Craig Moskowitz, Dr.Melissa Lopez-Pentecost, dr. Tracy Crane, lifestyle medicine, newsroom, nutrition, Supervised Exercise Program, Sylvester Comprehensive Cancer Center