Leisure-Time Physical Activity and Cancer Mortality Among Cancer Survivors.

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Epidemiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Limited evidence exists on the survival benefits of physical activity for survivors of less commonly studied cancers.
• Understanding the impact of physical activity on cancer mortality is crucial for improving long-term outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the association between post-diagnosis physical activity and cancer mortality.
• To examine how changes in physical activity levels before and after diagnosis affect cancer mortality.

Main Methods:

• Pooled analysis of 6 large cohorts including over 17,000 cancer survivors.
• Leisure-time moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) was assessed before and after diagnosis.
• Cancer mortality was the primary outcome, analyzed in relation to MVPA levels (MET-h/wk).

Main Results:

• Higher MVPA post-diagnosis was associated with lower cancer mortality in survivors of bladder, endometrial, and lung cancer.
• Increased MVPA (doubling guidelines) showed reduced mortality risk for oral and rectal cancer survivors.
• Lung and rectal cancer survivors meeting MVPA guidelines post-diagnosis had lower mortality, regardless of pre-diagnosis activity.

Conclusions:

• Increased physical activity after diagnosis is linked to reduced cancer mortality for several cancer types.
• Findings underscore the importance of promoting physical activity for cancer survivors' longevity and overall health.
• Healthcare professionals should encourage physical activity among cancer survivors.