A recent study reveals even little exercise helps high-risk breast cancer patients. A clinical trial run by the SWOG Cancer Research Network sought to understand the positive correlation between exercise and cancer survival. The study revealed that exercise not only helps them live longer but also makes them likely to remain cancer-free after their treatment.
The study included patients with stage II or III breast cancer, or high-risk stage I cancer, all of which have a higher rate of returning. Some 2,716 patients were enrolled out of which, 1,607 consented to respond to a questionnaire.
The form included questions about the study subjects' habits, including exercise. Candidates were asked about current habits, as well as routines prior to their breast cancer diagnosis. They were asked about their physical activity, and how frequently they do it. Study lead Rikki Cannioto said, “Our research shows that some physical activity is far better, in terms of cancer survival than no activity at all and it is just as beneficial as longer workouts.”
He added, “What these results suggest for doctors, and patients, is that even a modest exercise routine, taken up after cancer treatment, can help women with high-risk breast cancer live longer and healthier lives.”
