Impact of a Healthy Lifestyle on Colorectal Cancer Survival

Study Overview

A recent article in the BMJ detailed findings from a five-year study examining how a healthy lifestyle influences colorectal cancer outcomes. According to data, one in 24 women and one in 22 men will face a colorectal cancer diagnosis in their lifetime.

American Cancer Society Guidelines

The American Cancer Society offers guidelines designed to enhance survival rates for cancer patients. These recommendations emphasize the importance of maintaining a healthy lifestyle, which includes engaging in at least 2.5 hours of physical exercise each week and consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

Research Methodology

Researchers sought to determine if adherence to these guidelines could lower the risk of death or recurrence of cancer after a colorectal cancer diagnosis. The study involved patients with stage III colorectal cancer undergoing chemotherapy across medical centers in Canada and the United States. Participants completed surveys regarding their lifestyle habits, including diet and exercise, both during chemotherapy and six months post-treatment. Their responses were evaluated, with higher scores indicating greater adherence to the American Cancer Society guidelines.

Key Findings

The study revealed a significant 42% reduction in the risk of death for patients who maintained a healthy lifestyle after their cancer diagnosis. Additionally, there was a 33% decrease in mortality risk over a seven-year follow-up period for these patients compared to those who did not engage in healthy behaviors. This research is notable as it marks the first investigation into the effectiveness of the American Cancer Society’s lifestyle guidelines concerning cancer survival.

Demographics and Limitations

The findings indicated that the patients who adhered to a healthy lifestyle were primarily white, non-smoking women. However, the study’s demographic composition did not include a sufficient number of Hispanic or African American participants to draw conclusions regarding racial differences in outcomes.

Conclusion

Overall, the study underscores that adopting a healthy lifestyle—characterized by regular physical activity and a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains—can significantly enhance the chances of surviving a colorectal cancer diagnosis.

Author Information

Written by Monica Naatey-Ahumah, BSc
Reference: Tanne, J.H. (2018). Healthy lifestyle leads to better survival in colorectal cancer, study finds. The British Medical Journal, 361. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.k1671