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Exercise Fights Cancer: Live Longer, Recur Less
16 Sep
Summary
- Structured exercise slashes mortality risk by 23%.
- Patients had 17% lower chance of cancer recurrence.
- Combined aerobic and resistance training showed best results.
Structured physical activity integrated into cancer treatment offers significant survival and recurrence benefits, extending beyond its traditional role in improving quality of life. A comprehensive review encompassing over 8,400 individuals examined trials across Asia, Australia, Europe, and North America.
The findings revealed that patients incorporating exercise into their standard care experienced a 23% lower risk of mortality and a 17% reduced likelihood of cancer recurrence. Further analysis indicated a 26% decrease in cancer-specific mortality and a 17% reduction in overall mortality risk.
These positive associations were most significant for individuals completing at least 70% of their exercise program. Interventions combining aerobic and resistance exercises demonstrated notable benefits, while resistance training alone showed no significant effect, possibly due to differing biological adaptations.
The study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, suggests that exercise is an effective add-on therapy in cancer care, contributing to clinically meaningful oncological outcomes. Experts emphasize that patients should consult their doctors to determine safe and appropriate physical activity levels during their recovery.
