Exercise May Boost Survival Rates for Colon Cancer Survivors, Study Finds
Engaging in regular physical activity may help colon cancer survivors achieve survival rates comparable to those of the general population, according to a recent study published in CANCER, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Cancer Society.
Colon cancer survivors typically face a higher risk of premature mortality compared to individuals of the same age and sex in the general population. To investigate whether physical activity could bridge this gap, researchers analyzed data from two major posttreatment trials involving 2,875 patients diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer. Participants self-reported their physical activity levels after undergoing cancer surgery and chemotherapy, while a matched general population dataset from the National Center for Health Statistics was used for comparison.
The study measured physical activity in metabolic equivalent (MET) hours per week, where health guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, equating to around 8 MET-hours per week.
Key Findings from the Study
The research analyzed data from two major trials—CALGB 89803 and CALGB 80702—with notable findings:
- In CALGB 89803, patients who engaged in less than 3 MET-hours/week had survival rates 17.1% lower than the general population three years post-treatment. In contrast, those with 18 or more MET-hours/week had survival rates only 3.5% lower than the general population.
- In CALGB 80702, patients with less than 3 MET-hours/week had survival rates 10.8% lower, whereas those with 18 or more MET-hours/week had survival rates just 4.4% lower than the general population.
- When data from both trials were pooled, survivors who were cancer-free by year three and exercised regularly (≥18 MET-hours/week) actually had slightly higher survival rates (+2.9%) than the general population, indicating that consistent physical activity may even offer a protective effect.
Implications for Cancer Survivors
The findings highlight the impact of lifestyle choices on long-term survival. Dr. Justin C. Brown, lead author from Pennington Biomedical Research Center and Louisiana State University Health Sciences Center, emphasized the significance of this research, stating:
“This study provides cancer survivors with powerful evidence that factors within their control—such as physical activity—can significantly influence their long-term prognosis. By quantifying the survival benefits of exercise, we can help medical professionals, policymakers, and the public better understand how leading an active lifestyle improves overall health.”
The study underscores the importance of integrating physical activity into post-cancer care strategies. Researchers believe that promoting exercise as part of standard recovery programs could help more colon cancer survivors achieve longer, healthier lives.
