Aerobic exercise after cancer treatment lowers risk of recurrence and death, study finds
A major review of 8,500 participants shows aerobic exercise post-cancer treatment reduces the risk of recurrence and death, highlighting its role in recovery.
Key Takeaways
AIA recent scientific review has found that engaging in aerobic exercise after cancer treatment may reduce the risk of recurrence and death, underscoring the importance of physical activity in post-recovery care for survivors.
According to the Mirror, the review analyzed data from 8,500 participants across 123 studies and 21 clinical trials. The findings revealed that patients who exercised after treatment were 23% less likely to die and 17% less likely to experience cancer recurrence before death.
The review also indicated an 18% reduction in risk of death from any cause and a 26% reduction in cancer-specific mortality among those who exercised.
Cancer returns in 20% to 40% of patients, even after chemotherapy or surgical tumor removal.
Exercise has long been used to help cancer patients reduce fatigue and improve mobility, but its effect on lowering the risk of recurrence has remained under study.
Published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, the review explained that exercise may help the body fight cancer by improving cardiovascular health, boosting immune cell activity, and increasing blood flow to tumors.
Researchers believe physical activity may influence hormone levels such as estrogen and testosterone, increase muscle absorption of glucose, and help cells repair DNA damage.
Breast cancer was the most common type among studies included in the review, followed by bowel and pancreatic cancers.
Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said the new evidence suggests exercise can help people with cancer live longer, healthier lives, emphasizing the importance of supporting survivors to be active when appropriate.
Aerobic exercises include jogging, running, cycling, swimming, and dancing, while strength training involves weightlifting, squats, and push-ups.
Patients' ability to exercise varies depending on their health and treatment history, so consulting a doctor to determine safe and suitable activities is recommended.