Exercise has long been promoted as a vital part of a healthy lifestyle, particularly in preventing diseases like cancer. However, a recent landmark trial has provided compelling evidence that structured exercise can significantly improve outcomes for cancer patients after treatment. According to the findings, which were unveiled at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) annual meeting in Chicago and published in the New England Journal of Medicine, engaging in a regular exercise regimen can reduce the risk of dying from cancer by a staggering 37% and the likelihood of the cancer recurring or new cancers developing by 28%.
For decades, health professionals have advised adopting a healthy lifestyle to lower the risk of developing cancer. Yet, prior to this study, there was limited evidence to support the integration of exercise into the recovery routines of cancer patients. The world-first trial involved participants from multiple countries, including the US, UK, Australia, France, Canada, and Israel, and has the potential to transform health guidelines worldwide.
Dr. Julie Gralow, chief medical officer of ASCO, who did not participate in the study, remarked on the groundbreaking nature of the findings, stating that this research represents the “highest level of evidence.” She believes it will lead to a significant change in how healthcare providers view the role of physical activity during and after cancer treatment. The trial's results indicate that exercise is even more effective at preventing cancer recurrence than many prescription drugs currently available.
The study enrolled 889 colon cancer patients between 2009 and 2023, with approximately 90% diagnosed with stage three disease. Participants were randomly assigned to either a structured exercise program or to receive only a healthy lifestyle booklet. Those in the exercise group worked closely with a personal trainer or health coach for coaching sessions and supervised exercise, achieving a weekly target equivalent to three to four walks of 45 to 60 minutes. Remarkably, after five years, patients in the exercise group experienced a 28% lower risk of recurrent or new cancers, and after eight years, they had a 37% lower risk of death compared to the control group.
Dr. Christopher Booth, the study's lead author from Queen’s University in Kingston, Canada, noted that approximately 30% of patients with high-risk stage two and stage three colon cancer experience disease recurrence. He emphasized that the study provides a clear answer to patients' common question: “What else can I do to improve my outcome?” The answer lies in a structured exercise program that significantly reduces the risk of cancer recurrence and enhances overall well-being.
Prof. Charles Swanton, chief clinician of Cancer Research UK, echoed these sentiments, stating that the study illustrates the transformative power of exercise in boosting cancer survival rates post-treatment. He urged oncologists to consider recommending structured exercise programs as part of the cancer recovery process.
The findings from this pivotal trial are poised to influence global medical practices, with oncologists encouraged to discuss exercise regimens with patients following treatment. While the current study focused on colon cancer patients, Dr. Gralow suggested that the positive implications of exercise could extend to patients with other types of cancer as well.
Dr. Pamela Kunz from Yale School of Medicine highlighted the necessity of implementing exercise as a standard intervention for cancer recovery. She stated, “Exercise as an intervention is a no-brainer and should be implemented broadly.”
Responding to the findings, Prof. Sir Stephen Powis, national medical director of NHS England, expressed enthusiasm for the transformative potential of tailored exercise after treatment. He noted that increased physical activity could enhance the body’s ability to prevent cancer recurrence and ultimately save more lives. Regular exercise not only contributes to maintaining a healthy weight but also strengthens the immune system, reduces inflammation, and elevates mood, making it a vital component of cancer recovery strategies.
