Exercise Program Slashes Colon Cancer Recurrence, Boosts Survival by 37%

In a groundbreaking international study, regular exercise has emerged as a powerful tool in the fight against colon cancer recurrence, offering a significant boost to survival rates. The research, involving 889 colon cancer patients post-surgery and chemotherapy, split participants into two groups: one engaged in a structured exercise program over three years, while the other received only educational health materials.

The exercise group, guided by coaches, chose moderate-intensity activities like walking or pickleball, aiming for 2.5 hours of activity weekly. The results, observed at the eight-year mark, were striking—those who exercised were 28% less likely to experience cancer recurrence or new cancers, and their overall survival rate soared by 37%.

Dr. Kerry Courneya, a leading researcher in kinesiology, emphasized that exercise is no longer just a lifestyle perk but a critical treatment for colon cancer patients. This isn’t merely about feeling better—it’s about living longer. One participant, Terri Swain-Collins, diagnosed with stage 3 colon cancer in 2021, credited her cancer-free status to the structured program and the accountability of working with a physiotherapist. Her story underscores a vital truth: a doctor’s nudge to ‘get moving’ isn’t enough—support and structure make the difference.

The study, a first of its kind to directly link structured exercise to cancer survival, suggests a cost-effective alternative to expensive new cancer drugs. However, it’s not without drawbacks—18.5% of exercisers reported muscle strains or injuries compared to 11.5% in the control group. Still, the benefits seem to outweigh the risks, and researchers are now pushing for health systems to integrate behavior support programs into standard cancer care.

With colorectal cancer ranking as the third-most common cancer in the U.S. and rising among younger adults, this research offers a beacon of hope. It’s a reminder that sometimes the simplest solutions—putting one foot in front of the other—can be the most transformative.