Exercise After Cancer Cuts Death Risk by 37%

A groundbreaking study spanning 17 years has shown that a structured exercise program can significantly enhance survival and long-term health for individuals recovering from colorectal cancer. According to one researcher, “These findings will redefine how we approach colon cancer treatment.”

A Global Collaboration with Long-Term Impact

The international research effort, conducted by experts from the University of Sydney, Queen’s University in Canada, and the University of Alberta, followed 889 colorectal cancer patients across six countries over nearly two decades—making it one of the most comprehensive studies of its kind.

The goal of the Challenge trial was to determine whether exercise could serve as more than just a lifestyle recommendation for cancer survivors—specifically, whether it could actively improve survival outcomes and reduce the likelihood of cancer returning.

Our data make it clear—exercise should be seen not merely as a supportive therapy, but as an essential component of colon cancer treatment, said Dr. Kerry Courneya, study co-chair and professor at the University of Alberta.

Colorectal cancer has a notoriously high recurrence rate, with nearly one-third of Stage III patients facing its return. It’s currently the third most commonly diagnosed cancer worldwide and ranks second in cancer-related mortality.

A Tailored, Structured Exercise Regimen

Participants in the study followed what researchers termed a “structured” exercise regimen—about 250 minutes of physical activity per week, typically broken down into five 30-minute sessions. The plans were customized to each patient’s preferred aerobic activity and integrated into their medical care following surgery and/or chemotherapy.

In contrast, a control group received standard health education—general advice on improving diet and exercise habits after cancer treatment. This reflects the current norm in post-cancer care.

These were patients who had already completed surgery and chemotherapy,” explained Professor Janette Vardy of the University of Sydney. “They were then randomly placed into one of two groups: one received health education materials, while the other received those materials along with a supervised and structured exercise plan.

The outcomes were striking. Patients in the exercise group saw a 37% reduction in colorectal cancer deaths and were 28% less likely to experience recurrence or develop new cancers. Survival rates increased from 83% in the health education group to 90% in the exercise group.

Five-Year and Eight-Year Outcomes

When we launched the Challenge trial, we wanted to explore if exercise could truly reduce recurrence risk and enhance survival,” said Professor Vardy. “We found that five years after treatment, 80% of those in the exercise group were alive without any signs of the disease, compared to 74% in the control group. That translates to a 28% lower risk of recurrence.

Additionally, after eight years, overall survival was 90% in the exercise group versus 83% in the control group—a 37% reduction in mortality risk.

Importantly, participants didn’t need to become athletes. For many, the program involved just 150 extra minutes of brisk walking weekly—roughly 30 minutes a day, five days a week.

This isn’t about running marathons,” Vardy said. “Even modest, consistent physical activity can make a profound difference. These results should redefine the standard care protocol for colon cancer patients around the world and may have applications for other types of cancer as well.

While exercise as a prescription is gaining traction in managing conditions like chronic back pain and mental health disorders, this study reinforces its critical role in oncology care.The research team now urges healthcare providers to integrate structured exercise into cancer recovery protocols as a mandatory component—not just a suggestion.

From Recommendation to Prescription

Based on this evidence, patients should begin a structured exercise regimen as soon as they complete chemotherapy,” said Vardy. This isn’t just a wellness tip—it’s a life-saving intervention.

Though statistics can sometimes seem abstract, this study adds to a growing body of research supporting exercise’s biological impact on preventing cancer recurrence. With the average colon cancer patient age around 68, maintaining regular physical activity post-treatment appears crucial for improved outcomes.

One of the most frequent questions we get from patients is, ‘What else can I do to improve my prognosis?’” said Dr. Christopher Booth, co-chair of the study and oncology professor at Queen’s University. “The Challenge trial gives us a clear answer: a post-treatment exercise plan lowers the risk of recurrence and extends life.

Read the original article on: New Atlas

Read more: Urine Test Beats PSA in Prostate Cancer Detection