Exercise As Medicine: How Physical Activity Supports Cancer Prevention And Recovery

Last Updated:July 15, 2025, 17:47 IST

Recent research has shown how regular exercise and movement can play a role in reducing cancer risk. An expert decodes how physical activity can greatly help cancer patients.

In the evolving world of cancer care, exercise is emerging as more than just a lifestyle choice – it’s becoming a pillar of prevention and recovery. While traditionally associated with weight control and cardiovascular health, regular physical activity is now backed by strong scientific evidence for its role in reducing cancer risk, improving treatment outcomes, and enhancing quality of life during and after therapy.

Dr. Devesh S Ballal, Consultant – Surgical Oncology & Robotic Surgery, Manipal Hospital Old Airport Road, Bengaluru, answers how exercise plays a role in cancer prevention.

How does regular physical activity impact cancer prevention, according to current research?

Dr Ballal said, “There are numerous trials that support the fact that exercise lowers the risk of cancer. Exercise reduces insulin resistance and inflammation, enhances immune surveillance, and helps control systemic inflammation – all of which play a role in cancer development.”

He added, “Obesity, aside from its known impact on heart health, is a significant risk factor for nearly 13 types of cancer, with particularly strong links to breast, uterine, and colorectal cancers. A large-scale study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, involving 85,000 individuals, revealed that regular physical activity can reduce cancer risk by up to 26%.”

Is there scientific evidence linking specific types of exercise to reduced cancer risk?

Dr Ballal said, “Aerobic exercise and strength training both contribute to cancer prevention and are also beneficial during treatment and recovery. The American Cancer Society recommends that adults aim for at least 300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Additionally, recent research from Tata Memorial Hospital shows that yoga, especially for breast cancer patients, provides tangible physical and mental health benefits.”

How safe is it for patients to exercise during cancer treatment, like chemotherapy or radiation?

Contrary to popular belief, bed rest is rarely beneficial. Supervised exercise regimens are encouraged even during chemotherapy and radiation. Dr Ballal suggested, “While treatment-related fatigue may limit intensity, staying active helps preserve muscle mass, reduce fatigue, and improve overall well-being. Importantly, exercise plans should be customized to individual capacity and limitations to ensure safety and effectiveness.”

What role does physical activity play in improving long-term outcomes and survival rates?

Exercise is fast becoming a central component in long-term cancer care. Dr Ballal said, “A landmark study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that a structured exercise routine for patients recovering from colon cancer surgery and chemotherapy reduced the risk of recurrence by 28% and the risk of death by 37%. That’s a benefit comparable to chemotherapy, making movement a vital form of medicine in itself.”

Are there standard exercise guidelines for cancer patients or survivors?

Dr Ballal noted, “Yes. Guidelines from bodies like the American Cancer Society and the National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) offer practical frameworks for integrating exercise into recovery plans. The NCCN also outlines which patients may require medical clearance before beginning an exercise regimen. For example, individuals with osteoporosis should avoid high-impact activities due to fracture risk.”

Does exercise help reduce the side effects of cancer treatments, such as fatigue or neuropathy?

Clinical trials have demonstrated that regular, supervised physical activity can reduce cancer-related fatigue more effectively than medication alone. Dr Ballal said, “Exercise also improves balance and coordination, which helps manage chemotherapy-induced peripheral neuropathy. Simply put, movement plays a powerful role in easing side effects and promoting overall recovery.”

Physical activity is no longer just a supportive tool – it’s a crucial aspect of cancer care. With mounting evidence showing its ability to prevent cancer, improve treatment outcomes, and enhance quality of life, exercise is now recognised as a vital prescription in oncology – one that empowers patients to take active control of their healing journey.

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Delhi, India, India

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