Regular Exercise Before Cancer Diagnosis Slows Progression, Lowers Death Risk: Study

Exercise could be an important tool to slow cancer progression, prolong survival, and enhance quality of life in many ways.

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A recent study has found that regular exercise may slow cancer progression and reduce the risk of death. And while even small amounts of exercise made a significant difference in the study, the benefits were more substantial with larger amounts.

A considerable body of research suggests exercise can also promote a better quality of life. The underlying factors responsible for the benefits are multidimensional, boosting the body’s defense against pathogens and chronic conditions by several pathways.

More Exercise Equals More Protection

The study, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine (BJSM) on Jan. 7, followed more than 28,000 people with Stage 1 cancer from 2007 to 2022 to assess how exercise affects cancer. Stage 1 cancer is the earliest stage (after Stage 0), where the cancer hasn’t spread to other organs. Researchers characterized low physical activity as engaging in less than 60 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week for at least a year prior to cancer diagnosis. They defined moderate-to-high physical activity as engaging in a minimum of 60 minutes of at least moderate-intensity exercise per week.