A new study published in the New England Journal of Medicine highlights the powerful impact of exercise on cancer outcomes. Researchers followed nearly 900 patients treated for stage III or high-risk stage II colon cancer across six countries. Those who participated in a structured exercise program, guided by health coaches, experienced a 28% lower risk of cancer recurrence and a 37% lower risk of death compared to those receiving standard care.
Dr. Leana Wen, a CNN wellness expert, emphasized that this is the first randomized trial showing exercise after cancer treatment can directly reduce recurrence and improve survival. The benefits were seen with as little as 150 minutes of moderate to high-intensity activity per week, such as brisk walking or cycling. Even small bursts of movement, like taking the stairs or short walks, add up.
Experts now urge that “exercise prescriptions” become a standard part of cancer care. For more details, read the full article at MSN.