Many Questions From Patients With Cancer Have the Same Answer: Exercise

A Newly Published Comprehensive Review Reveals Striking Findings

Exercise has long been known to improve quality of life and support treatment not only in healthy people but also in patients with cancer. For the first time, however, its effects in cancer have been evaluated scientifically on such a comprehensive and systematic scale.

What Was the Scope of the Research?

Led by Shengjing Hospital (China Medical University) and published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, this umbrella review covers 80 systematic reviews and meta-analyses published between 2012–2024.

The analysis assessed a total of 485 associations . Findings were classified as moderate to high quality across studies. Exercise types included aerobic exercise, resistance training, high-intensity interval training (HIIT), yoga, tai chi and other mind–body activities.

What Benefits Does Exercise Provide?

According to the research, exercise can significantly reduce many common adverse effects of cancer treatment:

• Cardiotoxicity (heart damage)
• Chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage)
• Cognitive impairment (brain fog)
• Shortness of breath (dyspnea)

Exercise also:

Clinical Guidance and Future Implications

This study provides strong scientific evidence supporting routine inclusion of exercise in cancer-care protocols. The research shows that even preoperative exercise:

• Reduces postoperative complications,
• Reduces pain and length of hospital stay,
• And even lowers the risk of death.

The conclusion is clear: exercise should be an active part of cancer treatment, as well as a supportive activity.

Expert Opinion

Cancer Research UK nurse Celene Doherty, who was not involved in the study, commented:

“Exercise is an important tool for reducing treatment side effects and improving long-term health. However, patients should work at their own pace, start with small steps and always plan it with their health-care teams.”

Conclusion

The findings show that exercise strengthens both physical and psychological resilience. Regular exercise programs integrated into cancer care may improve quality of life and make treatment more sustainable and effective. Exercise should therefore be regarded as scientifically supported therapy rather than merely a recommendation.