Even after diagnosis, the power of exercise may still positively impact the health of those with cancers of the colon and rectum. According to the Archives of Internal Medicine, men who exercise frequently after a colorectal cancer diagnosis may lower their risk of death.
Men who exercised more frequently after their diagnosis of colorectal cancer had a lower risk of death
While it is known that exercise may help prevent cancer, less is known about the effects of exercise in people who already have cancer. In this study, 668 men with nonmetastatic colorectal cancer participating in the Health Professionals Follow-up Study were assessed for the amount they exercised after a diagnosis of colorectal cancer and were followed to see if exercise helped them live longer. Men filled out questionnaires about recreational physical activities, including time spent walking, running, bicycling, lap swimming, doing yoga, or other activities.
Men who exercised more frequently after their diagnosis of colorectal cancer had a lower risk of death caused by colorectal cancer or any other cause compared with men who exercised less frequently or not at all.
Exercise may help reduce the risk of death from cancer by improving immune system function, reducing inflammation, or other mechanisms. The authors state that this hopeful study should lead to further research trials to determine the benefits of exercise in cancer survivors.
It is well known that exercise may help prevent disease and improve health. National guidelines recommend that on most days of the week adults should exercise 60 minutes a day and children 90 minutes a day. Here are more examples of the benefits of exercise:
Remember to also exercise caution: If you suffer from a medical condition check with your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
(Arch Intern Med 2009;169:2102–8)