Cancer survivors are less likely to be physically active

A new study reveals that adults with a history of cancer are less likely to be physically active compared to those without any cancer history. The research, published in the journal AJPM Focus, examined data from over 2 million US adults collected between 2018 and 2024. The research team from Washington University in St. Louis discovered that physical activity levels rose in both groups over the study period, yet cancer survivors consistently reported lower activity levels.

Amy Eyler, a professor at WashU Brown School and coauthor of the study, emphasizes the importance of regular physical activity for cancer survivors, highlighting its positive impacts on cancer-related fatigue, overall quality of life, physical fitness, functioning, and mental health. The US guidelines recommend 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week for adults, but the study underscores the need for tailored physical activity plans for cancer survivors based on their health, abilities, and treatment effects.

Kim Johnson, another coauthor at the Brown School, stresses that cancer survivor physical activity recommendations should be individualized and customized to meet each survivor's unique needs. The American Cancer Society recommends regular physical activity for cancer survivors, but they acknowledge that these recommendations must be tailored to individual circumstances, ranging from training for a 5K to gentle movements or short walks.

The study points to opportunities for healthcare providers and caregivers to encourage physical activity among cancer survivors, with Eyler pointing out that providers should discuss physical activity as part of cancer care and offer consistent, evidence-based guidance, while caregivers can provide crucial encouragement and support.

Promoting physical activity remains a key approach to improving health and well-being among cancer survivors, according to the researchers.