Exercise Program Shown to Reduce Risk of Colorectal Cancer Recurrence
A recent study presented at the annual meeting of the American Society of Clinical Oncology in Chicago and published in the New England Journal of Medicine has revealed promising results regarding the impact of exercise on reducing the risk of colorectal cancer recurrence. The study, conducted by researchers at Queen’s University in Kingston, Canada, involved 889 participants with stage III and high-risk stage II colon cancer.
Participants were randomly assigned to either participate in a structured exercise program or receive educational materials on the benefits of exercise. Those in the exercise program worked closely with a coach to develop tailored exercise plans and received regular check-ins over a period of 3 years. The results showed that patients in the exercise program had a 28% lower risk of cancer recurrence compared to those who received educational materials only.
Additionally, the study found that the structured exercise program led to a 37% reduction in the risk of death, with a significantly higher overall survival rate among participants in the exercise group. This highlights the potential of exercise as a complementary approach to traditional cancer treatments in improving outcomes for colorectal cancer patients.
According to Christopher Booth, the lead researcher of the study, the findings underscore the importance of providing support and structure to patients to help them incorporate regular exercise into their lifestyle. While exercise is widely recognized as beneficial for overall health, the study demonstrates that a structured program with personalized guidance can yield significant benefits for cancer patients.
Booth also emphasized the affordability of the exercise program, with a total cost of $3,000 to $4,000 for three to four years of intervention. This cost-effective approach could have implications for healthcare systems looking to implement supportive programs for cancer patients.
Implications for Healthcare Providers
The study’s results have important implications for healthcare providers, highlighting the need to integrate structured exercise programs into cancer care plans. By offering guidance and support for physical activity, physicians can empower patients to take control of their health and potentially improve their outcomes.
Julie Gralow, the chief medical officer of ASCO, suggested that healthcare providers can find creative ways to encourage patients to engage in regular exercise, such as starting support groups or incorporating exercise discussions into follow-up appointments. By leading by example and actively participating in physical activities with patients, clinicians can inspire and motivate individuals to prioritize their health.
Overall, the study reinforces the notion that exercise is a valuable tool in the fight against colorectal cancer recurrence. By incorporating structured exercise programs into cancer care protocols, healthcare providers can offer patients a holistic approach to treatment that addresses not only the physical aspects of the disease but also promotes overall well-being and long-term health.
