Exercise Program Boosts Survival for Colon Cancer Patients
A recent international study found that a structured exercise program significantly improved survival rates for colon cancer patients. This is groundbreaking news that highlights the role of physical activity in cancer recovery. Experts suggest that cancer centers and insurance providers should consider integrating exercise coaching into standard care for colon cancer survivors.
Dr. Jeffrey Meyerhardt from Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, who did not participate in the study, expressed his enthusiasm, noting it is the first randomized controlled trial to demonstrate the benefits of exercise for cancer survivors. Previously, studies compared active individuals to those who were sedentary but didn’t confirm a direct cause-and-effect relationship.
Conducted across multiple countries, including Canada, Australia, the U.K., Israel, and the United States, the study randomly assigned 889 patients who had completed chemotherapy into two groups. One group received basic information about fitness and nutrition, while the other worked closely with a coach over a three-year period.
Participants in the coaching program noted how important it was to stay active. For instance, Terri Swain-Collins, a 62-year-old from Ontario, shared that walking for about 45 minutes several times each week helped her feel better. The regular check-ins with her coach kept her motivated to adhere to her exercise routine.
Remarkably, after eight years, those in the structured exercise group were 28% less likely to develop cancer again and experienced 37% fewer deaths from any cause compared to the control group. While some participants did experience muscle strains and minor injuries, the overall benefits far outweighed these issues.
Dr. Christopher Booth, a co-author of the study, emphasized that offering exercise programs at several thousand dollars per patient is a cost-effective approach that can lead to better health outcomes, including fewer cancer recurrences and longer lives.
The researchers are also investigating the biological connections between exercise and cancer prevention, including effects on insulin processing and immune system strengthening.
Even after her coaching program ended, Swain-Collins continues to exercise regularly, enjoying her walks in nature. Dr. Kerry Courneya, another co-author, noted that the key to sustaining this lifestyle change lies in understanding the benefits of exercise, making it enjoyable, and including a social aspect, which keeps cancer survivors motivated.
Overall, this study provides compelling evidence that exercise not only enhances well-being but also can significantly improve survival rates among colon cancer patients. It’s a prime example of how simple lifestyle changes can make a substantial difference in health outcomes.
