KKN Gurugram Desk | Physical fitness plays a crucial role in enhancing the survival rates of cancer patients. According to a recent study published in the British Medical Journal, high muscle strength and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) significantly lower the risk of mortality in cancer patients. The findings reveal that even small improvements in physical fitness can lead to notable benefits, especially for patients with advanced stages of cancer or specific types like lung and digestive cancers.

Key Findings of the Study

The study analyzed data from 42 research papers across Australia, the UK, Italy, and Brazil. Here are the key highlights:

• Cancer patients with high muscle strength or CRF had a 31-46% lower risk of mortality compared to those with lower fitness levels.
• Each small increase in muscle strength reduced mortality risk by 11%.
• Advanced cancer patients saw an 8-46% reduction in mortality risk, while those with lung and digestive cancers experienced a 19-41% decrease in mortality.
• For every unit improvement in CRF, the risk of cancer-specific death dropped by 18%.

The Role of Physical Fitness

• Muscle Strength: Stronger muscles improve recovery and enhance the body’s resilience against cancer and treatments like chemotherapy.
• Cardiorespiratory Fitness: Better CRF ensures improved oxygen delivery to tissues, helping combat fatigue and boosting energy levels.

Benefits for Specific Cancer Types

• Lung Cancer: Higher CRF reduces complications like breathlessness and enhances survival rates.
• Digestive Cancers: Better fitness levels result in improved treatment outcomes, reducing the risk of mortality by up to 41%.
• Advanced Cancer Stages: Even minor fitness improvements lead to significant survival benefits, offering hope to patients in severe conditions.

Exercise Recommendations

• Light strength training, cardio workouts like walking or swimming, and stress-reducing exercises such as yoga can help improve fitness levels.
• Regular, moderate exercise tailored to individual needs can enhance recovery and long-term outcomes.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the importance of integrating physical fitness into cancer care. Small yet consistent efforts in building strength and improving CRF can significantly enhance survival rates and overall quality of life for cancer patients.