A recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine highlights that regular exercise prior to a cancer diagnosis may significantly reduce the risk of cancer progression and mortality. The research analyzed data from over 28,000 stage 1 cancer patients in South Africa. Findings indicate that individuals engaging in moderate to high levels of physical activity were 27% less likely to experience cancer advancement and had a 47% lower risk of death from any cause compared to those who were inactive.
The study utilized data from the Discovery Health Medical Scheme and the Vitality program, leveraging wearable devices to track participants’ physical activity. Interestingly, even though 62% of the participants recorded no physical activity, noticeable benefits were evident for those who managed at least 60 minutes of weekly exercise.
While the study couldn’t definitively establish a cause-and-effect relationship and did not fully account for variables such as smoking and BMI, it emphasizes the potential of physical activity as a non-invasive intervention to enhance cancer outcomes. Experts recommend incorporating regular exercise, in line with WHO guidelines, to improve overall health and potentially achieve a better cancer prognosis.
For more detailed information, you can visit the article on Medical News Today.
