Staying active is key for cancer survivors, and researchers at Moffitt Cancer Center are exploring whether pickleball—the nation’s fastest-growing sport—can help. Partnering with YMCA of the Suncoast, Moffitt conducted a study with 23 participants, including 18 cancer survivors, to see if playing pickleball could encourage long-term physical activity.
For participants like 77-year-old Jacie Rowe, the sport became more than just exercise—it was a lifeline. After being diagnosed with multiple myeloma shortly after moving to Florida, Rowe endured chemotherapy and the isolation of the COVID-19 pandemic. But when she joined the pickleball study, she found not only a fun way to stay active but also a supportive community of fellow survivors.
Dr. Nathan Parker, a researcher at Moffitt, admitted he never imagined pickleball would be part of his work, but the results are promising. Participants became hooked on the sport, showing strong engagement. Now, researchers are considering a larger-scale study to explore the full benefits of pickleball for cancer survivorship. Could this popular sport be a game-changer for cancer recovery? Read the article about the study to find out.**
**Note: The International Myeloma Foundation does not endorse, guarantee, or assume any responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, reliability, or suitability of the content available through this website link, and is not liable for any damages or losses arising from the use of or reliance on the content, or from any errors, omissions, or inaccuracies in the content. The content available through this link is provided for educational purposes only. It is not intended, nor should it be construed, as medical advice or guidance.




