Exercise May Help Colon Cancer Patients Live Longer, Study Suggests

Physical Activity Could Improve Survival Rates After Diagnosis

A new study suggests that exercise may significantly extend the lives of people diagnosed with colon cancer—potentially allowing them to live as long as those who never had the disease. The findings, published Monday in Cancer, a journal of the American Cancer Society, highlight how physical activity can be a powerful tool for patients both during and after treatment.

Study Highlights the Impact of Exercise on Survival

While advances in cancer treatment have improved survival rates, people diagnosed with cancer still tend to have shorter lifespans compared to the general population. However, this study indicates that regular physical activity could help bridge that gap.

“After a colon cancer diagnosis, engaging in physical activity may help patients live longer, and for some, even as long as those without cancer,” said lead study author Dr. Justin Brown, associate professor at Louisiana State University’s Pennington Biomedical Research Center.

Researchers surveyed nearly 3,000 colon cancer patients about their exercise habits during and after chemotherapy. Over the course of six years, they analyzed survival rates and found that those who exercised regularly had a significantly lower risk of cancer recurrence and a longer lifespan.

How Exercise Fights Cancer

Though the study was observational—meaning it cannot definitively prove that exercise caused the improved survival rates—experts believe the connection is strong.

“Exercise improves heart health, mental health, and gut health, all of which play key roles in long-term survival,” said Dr. Keith Diaz, associate professor of behavioral medicine at Columbia University Medical Center.

Scientists believe physical activity helps in several ways:
Reduces inflammation – Lower inflammation levels can slow cancer growth.
Regulates insulin levels – High insulin can fuel cancer cell spread.
Strengthens the immune system – A stronger immune response helps the body detect and eliminate cancer cells.

Even Small Lifestyle Changes Matter

For colon cancer patients, making small but consistent changes in daily activity could have a significant impact.

“A small amount of physical activity each day may contribute to improved survival,” Brown emphasized. “Even little changes, when maintained over time, can make a big difference in health.”

The study found that five to six hours of moderate activity per week, such as brisk walking, was associated with longer survival. However, any level of movement is beneficial, even for those who aren’t currently active.

How Much Exercise is Enough?

The study raises important questions about the ideal type, intensity, and duration of exercise for cancer patients. Other recent research suggests:
1–2 minutes of vigorous activity (e.g., power walking, strenuous housework, or playing with kids) may reduce cancer risk.
11 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise daily (e.g., jogging, cycling, swimming) may lower the risk of various diseases, including cancer.

A Message of Hope for Colon Cancer Survivors

Colorectal cancer is expected to become the leading cause of cancer-related deaths among 20- to 49-year-olds in the U.S. by 2030. However, this research offers hope: lifestyle changes, including regular physical activity, can make a real difference.

“A cancer diagnosis isn’t the end,” Diaz said. “There can be many healthy years ahead.”

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