Structured exercise linked to longer cancer survival and time free of disease
A synthesis of clinical trials suggests that structured exercise programs can improve survival rates and reduce disease recurrence in cancer patients. The benefits were most pronounced in early-stage patients who maintained consistent aerobic or combined aerobic and strength training routines.
Why it matters
This research provides a strong evidence base for integrating physical activity as a standard, therapeutic component of cancer care protocols.
edited by Sadie Harley , reviewed by Andrew Zinin
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Add as preferred source Credit: Unsplash/CC0 Public Domain Structured exercise may help people with cancer live longer and have more time free of disease, finds a synthesis of the available evidence, published online in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
The survival and recurrence risk benefits were strongest in early stage disease, in those who did aerobic exercise or aerobic exercise plus strength training, and in those who managed to keep up their exercise routines, the findings indicate.
Their analysis prompts the researchers to conclude that incorporating the therapeutic potential of exercise into cancer care merits consideration.
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