Research Focus

As an Exercise Physiologist, Dr. Yamada is interested in using exercise rehabilitation to improve and/or maintain the health, fitness and quality of life (QOL) of adult and pediatric patients diagnosed with cancer. Cancer treatment-related toxicities cause cardiovascular and respiratory dysfunction, peripheral neuropathy (which reduces sensation and function of the fingers and palms and increases the risk of falls due to lack of sensation in the soles of the feet), reduces muscle mass, muscular strength, bone density and perhaps the most debilitating – causes cancer-related fatigue (fatigue that is not reversed with rest).

This area of research is highly impactful because in the United States alone, it is projected that in 2030 there will be 22.2 million adult cancer survivors. Cancer survivorship rates are increasing due to the improved efficacies of cancer treatments. While this is a positive projection, cancer treatments result in physical deconditioning and predisposes patients to lifestyle diseases, i.e., type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and osteoporosis. Exercise provides a holistic approach to treating the patient, where it addresses both the improvement in physiological (fitness) and psychosocial components after cancer diagnosis and treatment.

On a broad level, Dr. Yamada is committed to implementing cancer exercise rehabilitation programs within the community, and understanding the mechanisms by which exercise improves fitness, health and QOL in patients. In addition, she is focused on educating students about the oncological considerations in exercise programming, with the aim of generating a knowledgeable workforce. Dr. Yamada is committed to working with colleagues at the University of Hawaiʻi to provide patients with exercise leadership, and to facilitate the resumption of their hobbies and favorite activities, to ultimately impact their QOL.