Monthly Spotlights
Cancer and exercise
Moderate exercise has been linked to lowered risk of cancer recurrence.
Studies increasingly show a link between exercise – even moderate – and a lowered risk of cancer recurrence. And exercise can decrease stress and build self-esteem for people undergoing cancer treatment. Find out how to increase your daily activity and see what Dana-Farber researchers are discovering about the connections between exercise and cancer.
Resources from Dana-Farber
- Studies have shown that exercising as little as 30 minutes a day can decrease your risk for certain types of cancer. Explore ways to become more active without hitting the gym.
- Physical exercise can be beneficial to cancer patients, decreasing pain and depression. Find out more and read some helpful tips.
- Dana-Farber's Fencing for Fitness program is an innovative exercise and wellness program offered to enhance the lives of patients battling cancer.
- Dana-Farber's Breast and Ovarian Cancer Risk and Prevention Clinic has a new study designed to help women at high risk for breast cancer become more physically active. Learn about Project PACE and watch an introductory video.
- Cancer survivors who want to reduce their risk of recurrence should talk with their doctors about developing a wellness plan that includes healthy eating and exercise.
- How can physical activity reduce cancer risk? This fact sheet from the National Cancer Institute gives an overview of studies that explore links between exercise and cancer risk reduction.
Personal Story
News and Research on Cancer and Exercise
Exercise lowers insulin in breast cancer survivors
Recent research from Dana-Farber supports the hypothesis that exercise lowers levels of insulin in the bloodstream. Studies have found a link between high levels of insulin and an increased risk of breast cancer recurrence.
Moderate exercise improves survival rates for colon cancer survivors
Dana-Farber researchers found that colon cancer patients who exercised at moderate levels had a higher survival rate than those who didn’t exercise.
Study suggests TV watching lowers physical activity
Said the doctor to the cancer patient: Hit the gym
The health and fitness craze of the 1980s has spurred more scientists to study the impact of exercise and diet on cancer, explained Dr. Charles Fuchs in this New York Times article.
