Move Over, Meds Exercise Is the New Cancer-Fighting Champ

Exercise: A More Powerful Weapon Against Cancer Recurrence Than We Thought?

For years, we've known that a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of developing cancer. But what about *after* a cancer diagnosis? Groundbreaking new research suggests that exercise isn't just beneficial – it could be downright transformative, potentially even more effective than some drugs in preventing cancer from returning.

A landmark international trial, presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (Asco) annual meeting in Chicago and published in the New England Journal of Medicine, has revealed compelling evidence that structured exercise regimes can significantly reduce the risk of death and cancer recurrence in patients who have completed treatment.

The Key Findings: A Triumph for Exercise

• Patients who engaged in a structured exercise program after treatment experienced a 37% lower risk of death.
• The same group also saw a 28% reduction in the risk of recurrent or new cancers developing.
• This level of benefit is comparable to, or even *better than*, many drugs currently prescribed to prevent cancer recurrence, according to leading oncologists.

Dr. Julie Gralow, chief medical officer of Asco, emphasized the significance of the findings: "I would have retitled it Better than a Drug, because you don’t have all the side-effects.” She highlighted that the benefits are on par with many approved cancer drugs, which often come with significant toxicity and high costs.

Inside the Trial: How Exercise Made a Difference

The study enrolled 889 colon cancer patients, primarily with stage three disease, between 2009 and 2023. Participants were divided into two groups:

• Exercise Group (445 patients): Engaged in a structured exercise program, working with a personal trainer twice a month initially, then once a month, for a total of three years. The target was equivalent to three to four walks of 45-60 minutes per week, but participants had flexibility in their activities, from kayaking to skiing.
• Control Group (444 patients): Received a healthy lifestyle booklet with general advice.

After five years, the exercise group demonstrated the significant reduction in cancer recurrence. After eight years, the benefit in terms of reduced mortality was also evident.

"What Else Can I Do?" Now, There's a Clear Answer

Dr. Christopher Booth, lead author of the study from Queen’s University in Kingston, Canada, noted the common question from patients: "What else can I do to improve my outcome?" Now, he says, "These results now provide us with a clear answer: an exercise programme that includes a personal trainer will reduce the risk of recurrent or new cancer, make you feel better and help you live longer."

Implications for Future Cancer Care

These findings are poised to reshape global practice, with doctors encouraged to proactively discuss exercise regimens with patients post-treatment. While the study focused on colon cancer, experts believe the principles are likely applicable across various cancer types. Further research is underway to confirm this.

Prof Charles Swanton, chief clinician of Cancer Research UK, stated, "This fascinating study captures the power of exercise to transform people’s health and boost their chances of surviving cancer after treatment… The findings suggest that oncologists should consider recommending a structured exercise programme after surgery to improve people’s chances of survival."

A Call to Action (with a Word of Caution)

While the results are incredibly encouraging, it's crucial to remember that exercise isn't a one-size-fits-all solution. As Prof. Swanton advises, "My advice to cancer patients is to speak to your doctor before taking on any new physical activity."

The Bottom Line: Hope and Empowerment Through Movement

This study offers a powerful message of hope and empowerment for cancer patients. It underscores the vital role that physical activity can play in recovery and long-term health. By embracing structured exercise, patients can actively participate in their own well-being and potentially improve their odds of living a longer, healthier life, solidifying exercise as a critical component of comprehensive cancer care.

Tags: Cancer, Exercise, Cancer treatment, Clinical trial, Health, Oncology, Disease risk, Medical research, Patient health, Tumors, Cancer Recurrence, Physical Activity, Wellness, Prevention

Source: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/jun/01/exercise-better-than-drugs-after-cancer-treatment-international-trial-finds