A promising weapon against cancer recurrence

The review included around 8,500 participants across 123 studies and 21 clinical trials. Researchers found that patients who exercised after treatment had a 23% lower risk of death and a 17% lower risk of cancer recurrence before death. Their risk of death from any cause also fell by 18%, while the risk of cancer-related death decreased by 26%.

Cancer recurs in an estimated 20% to 40% of patients, even after chemotherapy and surgical removal of tumors.

Potential benefits of exercise

Exercise has long been used to help cancer patients reduce fatigue and improve mobility, but its impact on the risk of disease recurrence has remained an area of research.

The review, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, suggests that exercise may help the body fight cancer by improving cardiovascular fitness, stimulating immune-cell activity and increasing blood flow to tumors.

Researchers also believe that physical activity may affect levels of certain hormones, including estrogen and testosterone, increase glucose uptake by muscles, and potentially help cells repair DNA damage.

Breast cancer was the most common cancer type represented in the studies included in the review, followed by bowel and pancreatic cancers.

Michelle Mitchell, chief executive of Cancer Research UK, said the new evidence suggests that exercise may help people affected by cancer live longer and healthier lives. She emphasized the importance of ensuring that cancer survivors receive support to engage in physical activity when appropriate.

Aerobic exercises include jogging, running, cycling, swimming and dancing, while strength exercises include weightlifting, squats and push-ups.

However, patients’ ability to exercise varies depending on their health status and the type of treatment they have received. They are therefore advised to consult their doctors to determine which activities are safe and appropriate for their individual circumstances.