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London, UK – A new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reveals a crucial link between muscular strength, good physical fitness, and improved survival rates in cancer patients. The research, a pooled analysis of 42 studies involving nearly 47,000 individuals, found that individuals with higher levels of muscle strength and cardiorespiratory fitness had a significantly lower risk of death from any cause, including cancer itself.
The study analyzed data from patients with various cancer types and stages, assessing their muscle strength through handgrip tests and cardiorespiratory fitness using methods like cardiopulmonary exercise testing and the six-minute walk test.
Key Findings:
- Reduced All-Cause Mortality: Individuals with both high muscle strength and good cardiorespiratory fitness demonstrated a 31-46% lower risk of death from any cause compared to those with poor fitness levels.
- Improved Cancer-Specific Survival: Each unit increase in fitness level was associated with an 18% lower risk of death from cancer.
- Significant Impact on Advanced Stages: The benefits were particularly pronounced in patients with advanced-stage cancer (stages 3 and 4) and those with lung or digestive cancers.
“Our findings highlight that muscle strength could potentially be used in clinical practice to determine mortality risk in cancer patients in advanced stages,” stated the researchers. They emphasized the importance of incorporating muscle-strengthening activities into cancer treatment plans to improve life expectancy.
These findings underscore the vital role of physical fitness in cancer care. While traditional treatments focus on disease eradication, this research emphasizes the importance of addressing the physical and functional consequences of cancer and its treatments.
Disclaimer: This news article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions regarding your health or treatment.
