Exercise Proves More Effective Than Drugs in Preventing Cancer Recurrence, Groundbreaking Global Study Finds
A revolutionary international study has revealed that structured exercise programs can significantly reduce the risk of cancer recurrence and death, outperforming many commonly prescribed medications in terms of effectiveness—without the side effects.
New Research Could Redefine Post-Cancer Treatment Guidelines Worldwide
For decades, healthcare professionals have promoted healthy lifestyles to help prevent cancer. However, solid scientific evidence supporting the role of exercise after cancer diagnosis has been limited—until now. A world-first clinical trial conducted across six countries, including the US, UK, Australia, Canada, France, and Israel, has provided robust data showing that exercise after treatment can slash cancer recurrence risk by 28% and reduce mortality by 37%.
Published in the New England Journal of Medicine and unveiled at the prestigious American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) annual meeting in Chicago, the findings are being hailed as a breakthrough that could redefine global cancer care strategies.
Exercise Offers Stronger Protection Than Many Cancer Drugs
Dr. Julie Gralow, ASCO’s Chief Medical Officer, praised the study for its high-quality evidence, stating, “I would have titled the session not just ‘As Good as a Drug’ but ‘Better than a Drug,’ because you avoid all the toxicity and expense.”
She emphasized that the benefits from exercise—a 28% decrease in cancer recurrence and a 37% decrease in mortality—exceed those of many approved medications that often come with high costs and side effects.
Inside the Study: 889 Colon Cancer Patients Over 14 Years
Between 2009 and 2023, the study followed 889 patients with stage III colon cancer, randomly dividing them into two groups. One group (445 participants) received a structured, personalized exercise program, including monthly coaching and supervised training sessions. The other group (444 participants) was only provided with a generic healthy lifestyle guide.
The exercise group was encouraged to meet achievable goals—equivalent to three or four 45–60-minute walks weekly. Participants could choose their preferred activity, from walking and running to kayaking or skiing.
After five years, researchers observed a 28% reduction in the risk of cancer recurrence or new cancer diagnoses. At the eight-year mark, the same group showed a 37% lower mortality rate compared to the control group.
“What Else Can I Do?”: A Clear Answer for Cancer Survivors
Lead researcher Dr. Christopher Booth of Queen’s University in Canada explained that one of the most common questions from patients after surgery and chemotherapy is, “What else can I do to improve my chances?” The answer, he says, is now clear:
“Engaging in a personalized exercise program not only improves survival but enhances quality of life.”
Why This Could Transform Cancer Recovery Globally
Professor Charles Swanton, Chief Clinician at Cancer Research UK—which funded the UK segment of the trial—described the findings as a game-changer for post-treatment care.
“Exercise has shown remarkable results in improving survival outcomes. For many, it can reshape their entire recovery journey,” he stated.
Experts at the ASCO conference noted that while the study focused on colon cancer, preliminary data also suggest benefits in breast and prostate cancers, warranting future studies in those areas.
Doctors Worldwide Urged to Prescribe Movement, Not Just Medicine
Dr. Pamela Kunz from Yale School of Medicine stressed the importance of implementing exercise broadly across oncology care. She called exercise “a no-brainer” intervention that should be recommended to nearly all patients post-treatment.
Even NHS England’s National Medical Director, Prof Sir Stephen Powis, weighed in, calling the study “really exciting” and saying:
“Tailored physical activity—from simple walks to structured workouts—can play a vital role in preventing cancer recurrence and saving lives.”
He noted that in addition to improving survival, exercise helps regulate weight, reduce inflammation, strengthen immunity, and boost mental health—all crucial components of long-term recovery.
Important Note: Always Consult Your Doctor First
While the findings are groundbreaking, medical experts caution that exercise may not be suitable for all patients depending on their health condition or type of cancer. It’s crucial for individuals to consult their oncologist or primary care doctor before beginning any new fitness program.
Key Points: Exercise as a Post-Cancer Prescription
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37% lower risk of death in patients who followed a structured fitness plan
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28% reduced chance of cancer recurrence or new cancer development
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Outperformed many standard cancer drugs in effectiveness
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Minimal side effects and lower cost compared to medication
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Backed by high-level clinical evidence from a 14-year, multinational trial
