Physical Activity after Cancer Linked to Longer Life: Study
Cancer diagnosis can be a life-altering event that brings with it a range of emotions, from fear and anxiety to uncertainty and confusion. While advances in cancer treatment have significantly improved survival rates, cancer remains a leading cause of death worldwide. However, a new study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) suggests that there may be a simple yet powerful way to reduce the risk of death after cancer diagnosis: staying physically active.
The study, which analyzed data from over 5,000 cancer survivors, found that those who engaged in regular physical activity after diagnosis had a significantly lower risk of death from cancer and other causes. In fact, even moderate levels of physical activity, such as brisk walking during leisure time, were found to be associated with improved long-term survival.
The findings of this study are significant not only because they highlight the importance of physical activity in cancer survivorship but also because they underscore the potential benefits of small, achievable changes to daily habits. For many people, the idea of starting a new exercise routine or joining a gym may seem daunting or even impossible. However, the study’s results suggest that even small amounts of physical activity can make a big difference.
So, what exactly does the study say? And what can cancer survivors and their healthcare providers do to encourage physical activity and improve long-term outcomes?
The Study’s Findings
The study, which was conducted by researchers at the University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, analyzed data from over 5,000 cancer survivors who had been diagnosed with breast, colon, lung, or prostate cancer. The participants were divided into three groups based on their level of physical activity: inactive, moderately active, and highly active.
The researchers found that, compared to inactive participants, those who were moderately active had a 54% lower risk of death from any cause, including cancer. Similarly, participants who were highly active had a 72% lower risk of death compared to inactive participants.
But here’s the really interesting part: even moderate levels of physical activity were associated with improved survival rates. In fact, the study found that every 30-minute bout of moderate-intensity physical activity per day was associated with a 14% lower risk of death.
What Does This Mean for Cancer Survivors?
So, what can cancer survivors take away from this study? First and foremost, the results suggest that physical activity is an important component of cancer survivorship. By incorporating regular physical activity into their daily routine, cancer survivors may be able to reduce their risk of death from cancer and other causes.
But what does this mean in practical terms? For many people, the idea of starting a new exercise routine or joining a gym may seem daunting or even impossible. However, the study’s results suggest that even small amounts of physical activity can make a big difference.
Here are a few simple ways that cancer survivors can incorporate physical activity into their daily routine:
- Take a 30-minute walk during your lunch break
- Do a few sets of stairs instead of taking the elevator
- Try a yoga or Pilates class to improve flexibility and balance
- Take a bike ride or go for a swim during your free time
What Can Healthcare Providers Do?
Healthcare providers also have a critical role to play in promoting physical activity among cancer survivors. Here are a few strategies that healthcare providers can use to encourage physical activity:
- Discuss the benefits of physical activity with patients and provide personalized recommendations for increasing physical activity levels
- Incorporate physical activity recommendations into treatment plans and follow-up care
- Provide resources and referrals for cancer survivors who are interested in starting a new exercise routine
- Encourage patients to incorporate physical activity into their daily routine, such as taking a short walk during the day or doing a few sets of stairs instead of taking the elevator
Conclusion
The study’s findings are significant not only because they highlight the importance of physical activity in cancer survivorship but also because they underscore the potential benefits of small, achievable changes to daily habits. By incorporating regular physical activity into their daily routine, cancer survivors may be able to reduce their risk of death from cancer and other causes. Healthcare providers can play a critical role in promoting physical activity among cancer survivors by providing personalized recommendations and resources.
For cancer survivors, the message is clear: physical activity is an important component of cancer survivorship, and even small amounts of activity can make a big difference. So, what are you waiting for? Get moving and take control of your health today!
Source:
https://thepfc.club/blogs/news/how-staying-active-after-cancer-can-help-you-live-longer
