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.
