Engaging in regular physical activity before a cancer diagnosis can significantly reduce the risk of cancer progression and mortality, according to new research published in the The study, conducted by Discovery Vitality in partnership with researchers from Wits University and the University of Western Ontario, highlights the critical role of physical activity in cancer progression and survival.
The groundbreaking study retrospectively analysed data from 28,248 individuals with stage 1 cancer, examining their levels of physical activity prior to diagnosis.
Moderate to high physical activity (60 or more minutes per week) compared to no activity in the year preceding the diagnosis of cancer was associated with:
- 27% lower risk of cancer progression.
- 47% lower risk of death from any cause.
Low physical activity (less than 60 minutes per week) compared to no activity in the year preceding the diagnosis of cancer showed:
- 16% lower risk of cancer progression.
- 33% lower risk of death from any cause.
Dr Mosima Mabunda, Head of Wellness at Discovery Vitality, noted: “This research provides strong evidence that physical activity should be a key component of cancer care, before and after diagnosis. Exercise not only helps reduce the risk of developing cancer but also improves survival outcomes, making it a powerful tool in managing the disease.”
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The global cancer burden
Cancer remains a leading cause of premature death globally, with approximately 1 in 5 people expected to develop the disease in their lifetime. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), cancer was responsible for 9.7 million deaths worldwide in 2022. In South Africa, the situation is equally concerning, with the National Cancer Registry (NCR) reporting that the lifetime risk of developing a cancer is 1 in 8 females and 1 in 6 males.
The preventable nature of many cancers highlights the importance of lifestyle interventions. It is estimated that 30–40% of cancers could be prevented by addressing environmental and modifiable risk factors such as physical inactivity, smoking, poor dietary habits and obesity. These same factors not only influence the risk of developing cancer but may also impact cancer progression, recurrence, and mortality.
The study’s findings reveal that the benefits of physical activity are long-lasting. Five years after a cancer diagnosis, individuals who were physically active before their diagnosis had significantly lower rates of cancer progression compared to those who were inactive.
Dinesh Govender, CEO of Discovery Vitality, commented, “Our core purpose at Discovery Vitality is to enhance and protect people’s lives, and this research strongly supports the value of physical activity in cancer care. People who build a habit of regular physical activity are more resilient, which is why we prioritise incentivising exercise through our programmes. It’s heartwarming to know that the work we do at Discovery Vitality makes a meaningful difference in improving survival rates and quality of life for cancer patients.”
Implications for public health
This research adds to the growing body of evidence that physical activity is a vital component of public health strategies. By prescribing exercise, healthcare providers can help reduce the burden of cancer and improve outcomes for those diagnosed with the disease.
Discovery Vitality champions initiatives that help individuals develop a habit of regular physical activity, recognising its critical role in disease prevention and management. The findings from this study show the importance of incorporating exercise into cancer care protocols and public health recommendations.
In yet another effort to encourage healthy living, Vitality presented the findings of a study they partook in, which found a positive correlation between physical activity and the reduction of cancer progression and death. Some of the study authors present at the launch cast a spotlight on the ‘Big Five’ cancers in South Africa – and delved deeper into the complexities of cancer treatments as well as the role of exercise in the battle against cancer. All in all, an enlightening study that will hopefully get more people to move their bodies. It’s never too late to start!
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For individuals, this serves as a powerful reminder of the health benefits that even modest levels of exercise can bring.
