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Structured Exercise Program Cuts Colon Cancer Recurrence and Mortality

Experts call for exercise coaching to be integrated into standard care following trial results

New research shows that exercise can help reduce colorectal cancer risk.
An anti-inflammatory diet, often filled with leafy greens and other vegetables, can be a helpful intervention to lower colorectal cancer risk, according to a new study.
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Overview

  • The CO21 Challenge trial enrolled 889 colon cancer survivors from six countries and compared a three-year personalized exercise regimen against educational guidance.
  • After five years, the exercise group experienced a 28% lower risk of relapse or new cancer and after eight years saw a 37% reduction in overall mortality.
  • Participants received in-person coaching for the first six months followed by regular meetings with a physical activity consultant to sustain their fitness routines.
  • Researchers reported that exercise not only improved survival but also reduced fatigue, lifted mood and enhanced physical strength.
  • The findings, published in the New England Journal of Medicine and unveiled at ASCO, have led experts to advocate embedding exercise coaching in oncology as an affordable standard treatment.