Improving longevity post-cancer
As of January 1, 2025, about one out of every 18 Americans -- that's around 19 million folks -- was a cancer survivor. If you are diagnosed, one way to make sure that you have increased longevity is to get plenty of physical activity.
We've known for a while that exercise is beneficial for survival after diagnosis with breast, colorectal, and prostate cancers, reducing the risk of death from breast cancer by 42%, colorectal cancer by 30% and prostate cancer by 33%. And now we've learned that it is also beneficial for anyone who has or has had bladder, endometrial, lung, ovarian, oral or rectal cancer.
Research published in JAMA Network Open found that 150 to 300 minutes of moderate intensity exercise a week measurably helped reduce the risk of death for folks who'd been diagnosed with bladder, endometrial, and lung cancers. And survivors of ovarian, oral, and rectal cancers saw meaningful benefits from exercise when they spent more time and had more intense workouts.
For example, the most effective way for survivors of oral and rectal cancers to reduce their risk of death was to get double the recommended 150 to 300 minutes of moderate to vigorous intensity exercise weekly.
You can also use exercise to reduce your risk of getting cancer. A recent study found that folks getting the most amount of daily physical activity had a 26% lower risk of developing cancer compared to those getting the least amount. For more information, check out the cancer survivorship coaching program at 4YOUngevity.com.
Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.
(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.
Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.
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