Cancer & Exercise: Key Link Patients Need to Know

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Exercise & Cancer: Reducing Risk & Improving Outcomes

Growing evidence links physical activity to reduced cancer risk and improved survival rates. From prevention to managing treatment side effects, exercise is now recognized as an essential component of cancer care.

Physical Activity & Cancer Risk: What the Evidence Shows

Observational studies consistently demonstrate that higher levels of physical activity are associated with a lower risk of several types of cancer, including:

  • Bladder Cancer: 15% lower risk with highest levels of activity.
  • Breast Cancer: 12-21% lower risk with higher activity levels, both pre- and post-menopause.
  • Colon Cancer: 19% lower risk with highest levels of activity.
  • Endometrial Cancer: 20% lower risk with high activity levels.
  • Esophageal Cancer: 21% lower risk with highest activity levels.
  • Kidney Cancer: 12-23% lower risk with higher activity levels.
  • Stomach Cancer: 19% lower risk with highest activity levels.
  • Lung Cancer: Reduced risk, particularly among former and current smokers.

How Does Exercise Reduce Cancer Risk?

Exercise impacts several biological processes that may contribute to reduced cancer risk:

  • Lowering sex hormones and growth factors linked to cancer development.
  • Preventing high insulin levels.
  • Reducing inflammation.
  • Improving immune system function.
  • Altering bile acid metabolism (colon cancer).
  • Reducing gastrointestinal tract exposure to carcinogens (colon cancer).
  • Helping to maintain a healthy weight.

Sedentary Behavior: A Risk Factor

Prolonged sitting or a sedentary lifestyle is emerging as a risk factor for certain cancers, independent of physical activity levels.

Physical Activity Recommendations

The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends:

  • 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity or 75-100 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic activity per week.
  • Muscle-strengthening activities at least 2 days a week.
  • Balance training in addition to aerobic and strength training.

Benefits for Cancer Survivors

Exercise is not only beneficial for cancer prevention but also for individuals living with cancer:

  • Reduces anxiety, depression, and fatigue.
  • Improves quality of life and physical function.
  • May improve survival rates for breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers.

Specifically:

  • Breast Cancer Survivors: 42% lower risk of death from any cause and 40% lower risk of death from breast cancer with higher activity levels.
  • Colorectal Cancer Survivors: 30% lower risk of death from colorectal cancer and 38% lower risk of death from any cause.
  • Prostate Cancer Survivors: 33% lower risk of death from prostate cancer and 45% lower risk of death from any cause.

Ongoing Research

Large clinical trials are underway to further confirm the benefits of exercise interventions in cancer patients and survivors and to determine the optimal exercise protocols.

Key Takeaways

  • Physical activity is a powerful tool for both cancer prevention and improved outcomes for those living with the disease.
  • Regular exercise can reduce the risk of several cancer types and improve quality of life.
  • Cancer survivors should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity and strength training each week.
  • Reducing sedentary behavior is also crucial for overall health.
  • Consult with a healthcare professional to develop an exercise plan tailored to your individual needs and cancer stage.
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