Dale Boren Jr., PT, Regional Director at Physical Therapy Central and Clinic Director of Physical Therapy Central in Elk City, was recently featured in a Healthline article highlighting new research on the powerful role physical activity may play in cancer survival.
The article explores a large-scale study published in JAMA Network Open examining more than 17,000 survivors of seven cancer types, including bladder, endometrial, kidney, lung, oral cavity, ovarian, and rectal cancers. Researchers found that engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity after a cancer diagnosis was associated with a lower risk of cancer-related death.
Exercise After Cancer Diagnosis: What the Research Shows
The study analyzed long-term data and found:
- Any amount of moderate to vigorous exercise after diagnosis was linked to improved survival in several cancers.
- Bladder cancer survivors who reported some physical activity had a 33% lower risk of cancer death compared to inactive individuals.
- Endometrial cancer survivors who met recommended activity levels saw a 60% lower risk.
- Lung cancer survivors experienced up to a 62% reduction in risk when meeting guidelines.
- Even individuals who were inactive before diagnosis benefited when they became active afterward.
Current physical activity guidelines recommend 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week (or 75 minutes of vigorous activity), but the study suggests that even smaller amounts of movement can provide meaningful benefits.
Starting Slow and Building Safely
Dale emphasized that fatigue is one of the most common barriers cancer survivors face when returning to exercise.
His advice: start slow and gradually build toward 150 minutes of moderate activity per week—about 30 minutes a day, five days a week. For those able to tolerate it, incorporating two days of strength training using light weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises can further support recovery and overall health.
“Learn to listen to your body,” Dale advised. Monitoring fatigue, soreness, and 24-hour symptom response can help survivors safely progress their activity levels.
Hydration, proper nutrition, and choosing enjoyable activities like walking, dancing, biking, hiking, or yoga can also make movement more sustainable. Exercising with a friend or family member may provide added motivation and accountability.
Why Movement Matters
This growing body of research reinforces what physical therapists see every day: movement is medicine. Even after a serious diagnosis, it is not too late to experience meaningful health benefits from physical activity.
If you are unsure where to begin, guidance from a physical therapist can help you create a safe, personalized plan tailored to your needs, energy levels, and recovery goals.
If you or a loved one are navigating recovery after cancer and want expert guidance on safely returning to activity, the team at Physical Therapy Central is here to help. Find a clinic near you and take the next step toward rebuilding strength, endurance, and confidence.
