Exercise has long been recognized as a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle. It is well-known for its various physical and mental health benefits. However, a recent pan-cancer analysis has shed light on its potential in improving the survival and mortality rates of long-term cancer survivors. The study, conducted by Lee W. Jones, PhD, and his colleagues at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, reveals the significant association between guideline-concordant exercise and a reduction in all-cause mortality among cancer survivors.
One of the most notable findings of the study is that exercise consistent with national guidelines was linked to a remarkable 25% reduced risk of all-cause mortality compared to no exercise. This finding proves the profound impact that exercise can have on the overall health and longevity of cancer survivors. The study followed 11,480 survivors and had a median follow-up period of 16 years from diagnosis.
In addition to lowering the risk of all-cause mortality, exercise consistent with national guidelines also showed a significant reduction in cancer mortality. The study reported a 21% decreased risk of cancer-related death among survivors who adhered to the exercise guidelines. Moreover, exercise was associated with a 28% reduced risk of mortality from other causes. These findings highlight the holistic nature of exercise as a strategy to combat cancer mortality and improve overall well-being.
Meeting national guidelines for exercise was defined as engaging in moderate-intensity exercise for at least four days per week, with each session lasting a minimum of 30 minutes. Alternatively, engaging in strenuous-intensity exercise for at least two days per week, with each session lasting a minimum of 20 minutes, also met the guidelines. On the other hand, not meeting the guidelines included engaging in exercise below the recommended criteria, including zero days of exercise per week.
The study further revealed that exercisers had a significantly longer median overall survival from diagnosis compared to non-exercisers. Exercisers had a median overall survival of 19 years, whereas non-exercisers had a median overall survival of 14 years. This substantial difference in survival rates emphasizes the crucial role of exercise in improving the long-term outcomes for cancer survivors.
Exercise demonstrated a positive impact on various cancer sites. Patients with breast, endometrial, head and neck, hematopoietic, prostate, and renal cancers experienced a reduced hazard for all-cause mortality when engaging in regular exercise. The reduced risks ranged from 22% for prostate cancer to a staggering 59% for endometrial cancer. Additionally, exercise showed a significant reduction in cancer mortality for patients with head and neck cancer and renal cancer.
Stacey A. Kenfield, SM, ScD, and June M. Chan, ScD, both from the University of California San Francisco, emphasized the need for patient education and exercise oncology support. By increasing the levels of moderate to vigorous exercise, the survival rates and overall well-being of cancer survivors can be optimized. The study identified that non-exercisers accounted for 62% of the participants. This highlights the need for early intervention and education for cancer patients to encourage a healthy exercise routine.
The findings from this pan-cancer analysis reinforce the importance of exercise in the lives of long-term cancer survivors. Exercise consistent with national guidelines has demonstrated a significant reduction in all-cause mortality, cancer mortality, and mortality from other causes. The study also highlights the impact of exercise on specific cancer sites, providing hope and insight for patients with breast, endometrial, head and neck, hematopoietic, prostate, and renal cancers. However, it is crucial to note that exercise should not replace standard therapies but should be seen as a complementary approach that can greatly enhance the outcomes of cancer treatment. With further research and patient education, exercise can become an essential component of contemporary management approaches to reduce cancer mortality and improve the overall quality of life for cancer survivors.
Leave a Reply