Exercise Beats Drugs for Cancer Return – Trial Results
Exercise emerges as a superior strategy to medications for cancer patients, according to a landmark trial. The study discovered that structured cancer exercise programs significantly cut the risk of death by 37% adn reduced recurrence by 28%. This powerful intervention, surpassing the efficacy of some drugs, involved an international cohort and prompted a “major shift” in post-treatment strategies, as experts now urge doctors to prescribe physical activity for cancer prevention. Patients in the exercise group, with personalized training, engaged in activities like walking and skiing, achieving remarkable results. News Directory 3 is watching as oncologists worldwide prepare to update treatment plans, and the benefits may extend to other cancer types. Discover what’s next in recovery.
Landmark Study: Exercise More Effective Than Drugs for Cancer Patients
Updated June 2, 2025
A groundbreaking trial suggests structured exercise programs are more effective than some drugs in preventing cancer recurrence and reducing mortality. The international study, presented at the American Society of clinical Oncology (Asco) annual meeting in Chicago, coudl reshape global health guidelines for cancer patients.
The study, which involved patients from the U.S., UK, australia, France, Canada, and Israel, revealed that patients who engaged in a structured exercise regime after cancer treatment experienced a substantially lower risk of death and recurrence.This cancer exercise intervention proved more impactful than many currently prescribed medications.
Dr.Julie Gralow, Asco’s chief medical officer, emphasized the high quality of the findings, predicting a “major shift” in understanding the importance of physical activity during and after cancer treatment. The research highlights the potential of physical activity as a powerful tool in cancer prevention and recovery.
The trial, which followed 889 colon cancer patients between 2009 and 2023, divided participants into two groups: one receiving a structured exercise program with personal trainers, and the other receiving only health advice. After five years, the exercise group showed a 28% lower risk of cancer recurrence. After eight years,their risk of death was 37% lower.
“We titled [the session it was presented in] As Good as a Drug. I would have retitled it Better than a Drug, as you don’t have all the side-effects.”
Dr. Julie Gralow, chief medical officer of Asco
Participants in the exercise program aimed for the equivalent of three to four walks of 45 to 60 minutes each week, with options for activities like kayaking or skiing. This personalized approach ensured adherence and maximized benefits.
“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.”
Dr. Christopher Booth, queen’s University in Kingston, Canada
Prof. Charles Swanton, chief clinician of Cancer Research UK, noted the transformative power of exercise, calling it a “gamechanger” for some patients. He advised oncologists to consider recommending structured exercise programs post-surgery.
What’s next
The study’s findings are expected to prompt doctors worldwide to integrate exercise recommendations into cancer treatment plans. While the initial study focused on colon cancer, experts believe the benefits likely extend to other cancer types, pending further research.