Exercise is associated with longer survival in patients with colon cancer and a lower chance of the cancer coming back, according to a new study. Shironosov/iStockphoto/Getty Images via CNN Newsource
Staying active might be a key factor in extending life after a colon cancer diagnosis. A new study published in Cancer, a journal of the American Cancer Society, suggests that regular physical activity is linked to improved survival rates among colon cancer patients.
Dr. Justin Brown, the lead author and director of the Cancer Metabolism Program at Louisiana State University’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center, highlighted the significance of the findings. “Survival rates after a cancer diagnosis are still lower compared to the general population. However, this study indicates that physical activity may help colon cancer patients live longer—potentially even reaching the lifespan of those without cancer,” he said.
A Simple Step for a Longer Life— Exercise and Survival Rates
While previous research has shown that exercise benefits cancer patients, this study dives deeper into whether it can bring survival rates in line with those who never had cancer. Dr. Keith Diaz, a behavioral medicine expert at Columbia University Medical Center, noted that this research could be reassuring for patients undergoing treatment and those in remission.
The urgency of such findings is growing, as colorectal cancer is projected to become the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among adults aged 20 to 49 in the U.S. by 2030. Many patients are eager to understand how lifestyle choices beyond medical treatments can influence their survival and well-being, Dr. Brown added.
How Exercise Helps Fight Cancer
The study followed nearly 3,000 colon cancer patients over six years, tracking their physical activity levels during and after chemotherapy. Results showed that those who engaged in regular exercise not only lived longer but also had a reduced risk of cancer recurrence.
While the study was observational and cannot directly prove that exercise causes longer survival, the link is compelling. According to Dr. Diaz, the benefits of exercise extend beyond fitness. “Physical activity improves heart health, mental well-being, and gut health—all critical factors for long-term survival,” he explained.
Exercise also plays a role at a cellular level. It reduces inflammation and insulin levels, which can slow the spread of cancer cells. Additionally, an active lifestyle strengthens the immune system, helping the body detect and fight cancer more effectively.
Small Changes, Big Impact
For many cancer patients, the diagnosis can feel overwhelming. However, this study provides hope by showing that even small lifestyle changes can make a significant difference.
Dr. Brown emphasized that just five to six hours of moderate exercise per week—such as brisk walking—can contribute to longer survival. Even those who are not currently active can benefit from starting with small movements.
While more research is needed to determine the optimal type and intensity of exercise for cancer patients, previous studies suggest that even a few minutes of vigorous activity, such as power walking or playing with kids, can lower cancer risk.
“This is incredibly encouraging news for colon cancer survivors,” said Dr. Diaz. “A cancer diagnosis isn’t the end—there can still be many healthy years ahead.”
