I saw recently that we shouldn’t swim if we have low neutrophils, white blood count, etc. Is this correct and at what level would swimming be safe (in a pool). I’m taking Abemaciclib for secondary breast cancer.
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Where did you see that? I’m interested to know as I like to swim (in a swimming pool) and I also take Abemaciclib and get low WBC counts. I will see my oncologist tomorrow and I will ask her
Caroline Tweedie on the BCN lifestyle medicine strategies webinar last week
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I was told, by oncologist, that i couldnt swim whilst on kadcyla. I was really quite disappointed & she told me that if i had to swim to swim in open water rather than a pool as less risk?!??
I risked the pool a couple of times & enjoyed it 
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Hi Carlam84
Thank you for posting and asking whether you can swim with a low neutrophil or white blood cell count. As you may be aware abemaciclib can cause your white blood cells to drop and having low white blood cells can increase the risk of getting an infection. It is for this reason that you have regular blood tests whilst on abemaclicib to check your levels. If they are low you will be advised to avoid visiting places where the risk of infection is higher such as swimming pools.
If you @marie911 and @Luskentyre1 swim regularly and are worried about your blood levels it is important to discuss your concerns with your treatment team who will be able to advise you if your blood counts are at a level that it is safe to swim.
I am unsure which webinar you watched but you may find this video on exercise interventions for people with breast cancer with Caroline Tweedie helpful.
We also provide a number of different services for people living with secondary breast cancer aimed at providing both information and support online and face-to-face. These include Our Living with Secondary Breast Cancer Online groups facilitated by trained counsellors and speakers live sessions. Our face to face Living with Secondary Breast Cancer groups meet up monthly and also give you the chance to connect with and share experiences with other people who understand what you’re going through.
Do call our helpline if you would like to talk this through or have any further questions. The helpline team have time to listen, talk things through and signpost you to more support and information if necessary. Your call will be confidential, and the number is free from UK landlines and all mobile networks. The number is 0808 800 6000, (Relay UK - prefix 18001).
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