Exercise & Colon Cancer: Lower Recurrence Risk
- A new study published in The New England Journal of Medicine reveals that a structured exercise program can considerably reduce the risk of recurrence, new cancers, and death...
- The American Cancer Society reports that, excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer ranks as the third most common cancer in both men and women in the United States. A...
- The clinical trial, conducted between 2009 and 2023, involved 889 participants who had undergone surgery and chemotherapy for high-risk stage 2 and stage 3 colon cancer.
Structured exercise dramatically lowers the risk of colorectal cancer recurrence in high-risk patients. A groundbreaking study published in The New England Journal of Medicine reveals how consistent physical activity can significantly reduce the likelihood of new cancers and death following surgery and chemotherapy. This study, which included nearly 900 participants, unveiled that a personalized training program offers superior outcomes than general advice alone. Results showed an impressive 28% reduction in cancer recurrence and a 37% lower risk of death within the exercise group. The benefits of exercise, according to experts, may even rival some chemotherapy drugs. discover how this structured approach, previously highlighted by News Directory 3, is reshaping cancer care and potentially influencing insurance coverage for personal trainers. What other lifestyle changes might be surprisingly impactful?
Structured Exercise Lowers Colorectal Cancer Recurrence Risk
A new study published in The New England Journal of Medicine reveals that a structured exercise program can considerably reduce the risk of recurrence, new cancers, and death for individuals with high-risk stage 2 and stage 3 colorectal cancer after surgery and chemotherapy. This international trial provides strong evidence that consistent physical activity can prevent colorectal cancer from returning.
The American Cancer Society reports that, excluding skin cancers, colorectal cancer ranks as the third most common cancer in both men and women in the United States. A significant portion of these cancers are found in the colon.Nearly one-third of high-risk colon cancer patients may experience a recurrence after surgery and chemotherapy, making recurrence a major concern.
The clinical trial, conducted between 2009 and 2023, involved 889 participants who had undergone surgery and chemotherapy for high-risk stage 2 and stage 3 colon cancer. The average age of participants was 61, with a slight female majority and 90% having stage 3 cancer. Most participants were from Canada and Australia.
Half of the patients engaged in a three-year structured exercise program, featuring moderate-intensity aerobic activities such as walking, biking, swimming, or using an elliptical machine. The other half received standard care, including educational materials promoting physical activity and healthy eating.
Participants in the structured exercise program worked with a personal trainer, meeting twice a month for the first six months.The trainers provided tailored “exercise prescriptions” based on the individual’s preferences. After six months, meetings decreased to once a month, with additional support available as needed. The program aimed to create lasting changes in physical activity habits.
The study found that at five years, the disease-free survival rate was 80% in the structured exercise group, compared to 74% in the standard care group. This translates to a 28% reduction in the risk of new or recurring cancer.After eight years, overall survival was 90% in the exercise group versus 83% in the standard care group, representing a 37% lower risk of death.
Y. nancy You, MD, a professor of colon and rectal surgery at The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, emphasized the profound impact of the structured exercise program on cancer survival, quality of life, and overall well-being.
John Marshall MD, chief medical consultant of the Colorectal Cancer Alliance, noted the long-term benefits of the exercise program, suggesting that starting a structured program makes individuals more likely to maintain exercise habits independently.
“These results now provide us with a clear answer: An exercise program that includes a personal trainer will reduce the risk of recurrent or new cancer, make you feel better, and help you live longer,” saeid Christopher Booth, MD, director of the division of cancer care at Queen’s University’s Cancer Research Institute in Kingston, Canada.
“The study shows that exercise has an impact as large and or even larger than some chemotherapy drugs have had in terms of overall outcome for patients,” Marshall said. “this is a remarkable result. This study justifies our recommendations and quantifies the magnitude of benefit.”
What’s next
Researchers suggest that exercise may positively influence metabolism,inflammation,and immune function,although these factors require further examination. Future efforts may focus on encouraging insurers to cover the costs of personal trainers, recognizing their potential to improve patient outcomes.