Objective:

To investigate the association between postdiagnosis physical activity levels and cancer mortality among survivors of various cancer types.

Approach:

Key Findings:

• Postdiagnosis moderate-to-vigorous physical activity was linked to lower cancer mortality in survivors of bladder, endometrial, lung, ovarian, oral, and rectal cancers.
• Any level of postdiagnosis activity reduced cancer mortality compared to no activity.
• Higher activity levels correlated with lower cancer mortality, particularly in ovarian and rectal cancer survivors.
• Lung and rectal cancer survivors who increased activity postdiagnosis had lower mortality compared to those who remained inactive.
• Higher activity levels, including amounts consistent with doubling or tripling physical activity guidelines, were associated with lower cancer mortality among oral and rectal cancer survivors.

Interpretation:

Engaging in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity after a cancer diagnosis may enhance survival rates among survivors of several cancer types, highlighting the importance of physical activity in cancer recovery.

Limitations:

• Sensitivity analyses showed attenuated associations when excluding deaths within the first 2 years post-assessment.
• Further studies are needed to determine optimal activity levels and variations by cancer type.

Conclusion:

Moderate-to-vigorous physical activity following a cancer diagnosis is associated with improved survival among various cancer survivors, warranting further research.

Sources:

• JAMA Network Open
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