Colon cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the large intestine or rectum. It is the third most common cancer in the world, with an estimated 1.8 million new cases and 881,000 deaths in 2018.

While there are various treatments available, including surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy, physical activity has been shown to play a significant role in extending survival rates for colon cancer patients.

How Physical Activity Affects Colon Cancer Survival Rates

Physical activity has been linked to a number of benefits for colon cancer patients, including improved overall health, reduced inflammation, and increased immune function.

These benefits can help to reduce the risk of cancer recurrence as well as improve survival rates. Additionally, physical activity can help to reduce the risk of other chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, which can also negatively impact cancer survival rates.

The Research on Physical Activity and Colon Cancer Survival Rates

There have been numerous studies conducted on the relationship between physical activity and colon cancer survival rates.

One study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that colon cancer patients who engaged in regular physical activity had a 31% reduced risk of death from any cause compared to patients who were inactive. Another study published in the same journal found that patients who engaged in high levels of physical activity had a 42% reduced risk of cancer-specific death compared to patients who were inactive.

Other studies have found similar results.

A study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute found that physical activity was associated with improved survival rates for colon cancer patients, regardless of the type of treatment they received.

Additionally, a study published in Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention found that colon cancer patients who engaged in moderate to vigorous physical activity had a 50% reduced risk of cancer recurrence compared to patients who were inactive.

The Benefits of Exercise for Colon Cancer Patients

In addition to improving survival rates, physical activity also provides a number of other benefits for colon cancer patients. These benefits include:.

Reduced fatigue and improved energy levels
Improved mood and reduced anxiety and depression
Improved muscle strength and endurance
Improved flexibility and balance
Improved cardiovascular health

These benefits can help to improve overall quality of life for colon cancer patients and can also help to reduce the risk of other chronic diseases.

How Much Exercise is Enough?

The amount of exercise needed to extend survival rates for colon cancer patients varies, but most studies suggest that patients should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise per week.

This can include activities such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or dancing. Additionally, strength training exercises such as weight lifting or resistance band exercises should be incorporated two to three times per week to maintain muscle strength and endurance.

Getting Started with Exercise

Starting an exercise program can be challenging, especially for those who are undergoing cancer treatment or who have recently completed treatment.

It’s important to talk to your healthcare provider before starting any exercise program to ensure that it is safe for you. Additionally, working with a certified personal trainer or physical therapist who has experience working with cancer patients can help to ensure that exercises are appropriate and safe.

It’s also important to start slowly and gradually increase the intensity and duration of exercise over time. Short, frequent bouts of exercise throughout the day can be just as effective as longer, more intense workouts.

Additionally, incorporating physical activity into daily routines such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking further away from the store can help to increase overall physical activity levels.

Conclusion

Physical activity plays a vital role in extending survival rates for colon cancer patients. Regular exercise can help to improve overall health, reduce inflammation, and increase immune function, all of which can help to improve survival rates.

Additionally, exercise provides a number of other benefits for colon cancer patients including reduced fatigue, improved mood, improved muscle strength and endurance, improved flexibility and balance, and improved cardiovascular health. If you are a colon cancer patient, talk to your healthcare provider about incorporating physical activity into your treatment plan.