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A groundbreaking international trial has revealed that an exercise program tailored for colon cancer patients can reduce the risk of mortality by a significant third. The study showed that even a moderate amount of exercise, ranging from swimming to salsa classes, can have a profound impact on patient outcomes.
Leading researcher Professor Vicky Coyle of Queen’s University Belfast underscored the importance of viewing treatment as an active practice rather than a passive one. The three-year exercise program, which commenced shortly after chemotherapy, aimed to double the recommended amount of physical activity for the general population. This equated to three-to-four weekly sessions of brisk walking lasting 45-60 minutes each.
Participants in the trial, totaling 889 patients, were divided into two groups – one engaging in the exercise program and the other receiving informational leaflets promoting a healthy lifestyle. Results published in the New England Journal of Medicine demonstrated that those following the exercise regimen experienced significant benefits. Notably, after five years, 80% of exercisers remained cancer-free compared to 74% in the control group, translating to a 28% lower risk of cancer recurrence or new formation.
Moreover, the data indicated a notable disparity in mortality rates between the groups after eight years post-initial cancer treatment. Only 10% of individuals on the exercise program succumbed to the disease, in contrast to 17% in the group receiving standard health advice. This marked a 37% decrease in the risk of death for those engaged in regular physical activity. The precise mechanisms behind the positive effects of exercise remain unclear, with theories pointing to impacts on growth hormones, inflammation levels, and immune system function in combating cancer.
Welcoming these findings, Dr. Joe Henson of the University of Leicester highlighted the multifaceted benefits of exercise, including reduced fatigue, improved mood, and enhanced physical strength. With colon cancer ranking as the fourth most prevalent cancer in the UK, the implications of this trial have the potential to revolutionize clinical practice. However, the success of implementing exercise programs into standard care hinges on adequate funding and staffing within healthcare services, as emphasized by Cancer Research UK representative, Caroline Geraghty
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