Latest news with #VickyCoyle
BBC News
02-06-2025
- Health
- BBC News
Major study proves exercise improves cancer survival
An exercise programme for colon cancer patients can cut the risk of dying by a third, a major international trial researchers said it was "not a large amount" of exercise and any type of workout from swimming to salsa classes results could change the way colon cancer is treated around the are already investigating whether similar exercise regimes could improve survival for people with other diseases, such as breast cancer. "It's a bit of a mind-shift, thinking of treatment as something you do, not just something you take," says researcher Prof Vicky Coyle from Queen's University the trial, the three-year exercise programme started soon after aim was to get people doing at least double the amount of exercise set out in the guidelines for the general could be three-to-four sessions of brisk walking a week, lasting 45-60 minutes, Prof Coyle got weekly face-to-face coaching sessions for the first six months, which then dropped to once a trial, involving 889 patients, put half on the exercise programme. The other half were given leaflets promoting a healthy results, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, showed after five years:80% of people exercising remained cancer-freecompared with 74% in the other groupmeaning a 28% reduction in the risk of the cancer coming back, or a new one formingMeanwhile, eight years after the initial cancer treatment:10% of people on the exercise programme diedcompared with 17% in the group given only health advicemarking a 37% lower risk of deathExactly why exercise has this beneficial effect is unknown, but ideas include the impact on growth hormones, inflammation levels in the body and how the immune system functions - which patrols the body for Joe Henson, from the University of Leicester, said the results were "exciting".He added: "I saw first-hand that this reduced fatigue, lifted people's mood and boosted their physical strength."We know that physical activity regulates several key biological processes that could explain these results, and further research will help us uncover why exercise is having such a positive impact."Colon cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, with around 31,800 people diagnosed each Geraghty, from Cancer Research UK, said: "This trial has the potential to transform clinical practice, but only if health services have the necessary funding and staff to make it a reality for patients."
Yahoo
02-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Brisk walks could cut risk of death for colon cancer patients by more than a third, study finds
A structured exercise routine can reduce the risk of death for people with colon cancer by more than a third, a study has found. The results, unveiled at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) conference on Sunday, could transform how colon cancer is treated around the world, the researchers said. The scientists hope the findings will prompt healthcare providers to integrate exercise plans into routine cancer care. The CO21 CHALLENGE trial, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, followed 889 people with colon cancer across six countries, including the UK. It found that a structured exercise programme significantly reduced the likelihood of the disease returning and improved overall survival compared with standard advice. After five years, 80 per cent of patients who followed a tailored exercise regime were cancer-free, compared with 74 per cent of those who were offered just health education materials. This means the risk of dying, cancer coming back, or developing a new cancer was 28 per cent lower in the exercise group. After eight years, survival rates were 90 per cent in the exercise group compared to 83 per cent in the health education group, representing a 37 per cent lower risk of death. More than 31,000 people in the UK die from colon cancer every year, according to Cancer Research UK. The study was part-funded by Cancer Research UK's Stand Up To Cancer campaign and carried out in collaboration with the Canadian Cancer Trials Group (CCTG). The three-year programme saw patients supported by physical activity consultants, starting with weekly in-person sessions for the first six months and moving to monthly sessions either in person or online. Activities were tailored to the individual, from brisk walking to gym-based circuit training. Among the patients to benefit from the trial was Margaret Tubridy, 69, from north Belfast. Before her cancer diagnosis, she said she had never exercised. Now, five years on, she says she is lifting weights, pole walking and taking part in gym classes twice a week. 'It's been almost five years since my cancer diagnosis and if I meet anyone, I tell them I am doing great,' she said. 'Taking part in the trial helped me so much – I am stronger, fitter, and my anxiety is better. I never thought at 69 years of age I would be able to do all of this – I am chuffed to bits.' Professor Vicky Coyle, UK lead researcher and clinical professor at Queen's University Belfast, said the study gives 'clear and encouraging' evidence that physical activity can reduce colon cancer mortality. 'We now need to work with policymakers and healthcare providers to embed exercise into treatment plans where appropriate,' she said. Cancer Research UK said the findings should act as a wake-up call for health services, adding it could 'transform clinical practice'. However, Caroline Geraghty, senior specialist information nurse at the charity, said this can only happen 'if health services have the necessary funding and staff to make it a reality for patients'. She added: 'It's important to remember that every cancer journey is different – starting new activities after treatment can feel overwhelming, and it may not be the right option for everyone. Take things at your own pace and speak to your doctor to discuss what is safe for you.' The researchers said more work is needed to explore the biological mechanisms behind exercise's effect on cancer, but the evidence is already strong enough to prompt urgent action.
Irish Examiner
01-06-2025
- Health
- Irish Examiner
Exercise slashes risk of death in patients with colon cancer
Exercise slashes the risk of death in patients with colon cancer by more than a third, a trial has found. Physical activity could also prevent the disease from coming back, as well as lifting mood, reducing fatigue and boosting strength, according to researchers. Colon cancer develops in the part of the large intestine known as the colon, part of the large bowel, which also comprises the rectum and anus. It can sometimes be referred to as bowel cancer or colorectal cancer. Our study gives clear, encouraging evidence that physical activity can reduce the risk of cancer returning for some people with colon cancer The CO21 Challenge trial, led by researchers in Northern Ireland and Canada, involved 889 people with colon cancer from six countries. All patients had had surgery and chemotherapy for their cancer and were deemed well enough to exercise, but were not meeting recommended physical activity levels. Around half were given a three-year tailored exercise programme, which included the likes of brisk walking, circuit classes, cycling, or swimming. The plan included in-person coaching sessions for the first six months, as well as regular meetings with a physical activity consultant. We now need to work with policymakers and healthcare providers to embed exercise into treatment plans where appropriate The other group were offered materials that promoted exercise and nutrition. The study found that after five years, the risk of dying, relapse or developing a new cancer was 28% lower in the group with a tailored exercise plan. After eight years, patients in the physical activity group had a 37% lower risk of death. Professor Vicky Coyle, UK lead researcher for the trial and clinical professor at Queen's University Belfast, said: 'During the trial, we supported people to reach their weekly exercise target in a way that worked for them. 'This could be a brisk walk for around 40 minutes every day, but some patients were also doing circuit classes, cycling, swimming, and many other activities. We know that physical activity regulates several key biological processes that could explain these results, and further research will help us uncover why exercise is having such a positive impact 'Our study gives clear, encouraging evidence that physical activity can reduce the risk of cancer returning for some people with colon cancer. 'We now need to work with policymakers and healthcare providers to embed exercise into treatment plans where appropriate.' Dr Joe Henson, associate professor in lifestyle medicine at the University of Leicester, said: 'Leading the exercise sessions in Leicester, I saw first-hand that this reduced fatigue, lifted people's mood, and boosted their physical strength. 'We know that physical activity regulates several key biological processes that could explain these results, and further research will help us uncover why exercise is having such a positive impact.' The findings, published in the New England Journal of Medicine and presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), could 'transform clinical practice', according to experts. This trial has the potential to transform clinical practice, but only if health services have the necessary funding and staff to make it a reality for patients Caroline Geraghty, senior specialist information nurse at Cancer Research UK, said: 'Being active has many benefits, and this study shows that exercise doesn't only improve well-being – it can also boost people's chances of surviving colon cancer. 'Everyone recovering from cancer should have access to tailored support to help them live longer, better lives. 'This trial has the potential to transform clinical practice, but only if health services have the necessary funding and staff to make it a reality for patients. 'It's important to remember that every cancer journey is different – starting new activities after treatment can feel overwhelming, and it may not be the right option for everyone. Take things at your own pace and speak to your doctor to discuss what is safe for you.' Professor Peter Johnson, NHS national clinical director for cancer, said: 'These exciting findings add to the growing evidence of the benefits of physical activity for people affected by cancer, not just in helping them be fitter for treatment and boosting their immediate recovery, but reducing the risk of the disease coming back. 'This is why we've asked cancer alliances across the country to look at ways to encourage and support patients to do physical activity and ensure every healthcare professional they see can help them be in the best possible place – both physically and mentally – before, during and after treatment.'
North Wales Chronicle
01-06-2025
- Health
- North Wales Chronicle
Exercise slashes risk of death in patients with colon cancer
Physical activity could also prevent the disease from coming back, as well as lifting mood, reducing fatigue and boosting strength, according to researchers. Colon cancer develops in the part of the large intestine known as the colon, part of the large bowel, which also comprises the rectum and anus. It can sometimes be referred to as bowel cancer or colorectal cancer. Cancer Research UK estimates about 31,800 people every year in the UK are diagnosed with the disease, with around 9,500 deaths. The CO21 Challenge trial, led by researchers in Northern Ireland and Canada, involved 889 people with colon cancer from six countries, including the UK. All patients had had surgery and chemotherapy for their cancer and were deemed well enough to exercise, but were not meeting recommended physical activity levels. Around half were given a three-year tailored exercise programme, which included the likes of brisk walking, circuit classes, cycling, or swimming. The plan included in-person coaching sessions for the first six months, as well as regular meetings with a physical activity consultant. The other group were offered materials that promoted exercise and nutrition. The study found that after five years, the risk of dying, relapse or developing a new cancer was 28% lower in the group with a tailored exercise plan. After eight years, patients in the physical activity group had a 37% lower risk of death. Professor Vicky Coyle, UK lead researcher for the trial and clinical professor at Queen's University Belfast, said: 'During the trial, we supported people to reach their weekly exercise target in a way that worked for them. 'This could be a brisk walk for around 40 minutes every day, but some patients were also doing circuit classes, cycling, swimming, and many other activities. 'Our study gives clear, encouraging evidence that physical activity can reduce the risk of cancer returning for some people with colon cancer. 'We now need to work with policymakers and healthcare providers to embed exercise into treatment plans where appropriate.' Dr Joe Henson, associate professor in lifestyle medicine at the University of Leicester, said: 'Leading the exercise sessions in Leicester, I saw first-hand that this reduced fatigue, lifted people's mood, and boosted their physical strength. 'We know that physical activity regulates several key biological processes that could explain these results, and further research will help us uncover why exercise is having such a positive impact.' The findings, published in the New England Journal of Medicine and presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), could 'transform clinical practice', according to experts. Caroline Geraghty, senior specialist information nurse at Cancer Research UK, which part-funded the CO21 Challenge through Stand Up To Cancer, said: 'Being active has many benefits, and this study shows that exercise doesn't only improve well-being – it can also boost people's chances of surviving colon cancer. 'Everyone recovering from cancer should have access to tailored support to help them live longer, better lives. 'This trial has the potential to transform clinical practice, but only if health services have the necessary funding and staff to make it a reality for patients. 'It's important to remember that every cancer journey is different – starting new activities after treatment can feel overwhelming, and it may not be the right option for everyone. Take things at your own pace and speak to your doctor to discuss what is safe for you.' Professor Peter Johnson, NHS national clinical director for cancer, said: 'These exciting findings add to the growing evidence of the benefits of physical activity for people affected by cancer, not just in helping them be fitter for treatment and boosting their immediate recovery, but reducing the risk of the disease coming back. 'This is why we've asked cancer alliances across the country to look at ways to encourage and support patients to do physical activity and ensure every healthcare professional they see can help them be in the best possible place – both physically and mentally – before, during and after treatment.'
Rhyl Journal
01-06-2025
- Health
- Rhyl Journal
Exercise slashes risk of death in patients with colon cancer
Physical activity could also prevent the disease from coming back, as well as lifting mood, reducing fatigue and boosting strength, according to researchers. Colon cancer develops in the part of the large intestine known as the colon, part of the large bowel, which also comprises the rectum and anus. It can sometimes be referred to as bowel cancer or colorectal cancer. Cancer Research UK estimates about 31,800 people every year in the UK are diagnosed with the disease, with around 9,500 deaths. The CO21 Challenge trial, led by researchers in Northern Ireland and Canada, involved 889 people with colon cancer from six countries, including the UK. All patients had had surgery and chemotherapy for their cancer and were deemed well enough to exercise, but were not meeting recommended physical activity levels. Around half were given a three-year tailored exercise programme, which included the likes of brisk walking, circuit classes, cycling, or swimming. The plan included in-person coaching sessions for the first six months, as well as regular meetings with a physical activity consultant. The other group were offered materials that promoted exercise and nutrition. The study found that after five years, the risk of dying, relapse or developing a new cancer was 28% lower in the group with a tailored exercise plan. After eight years, patients in the physical activity group had a 37% lower risk of death. Professor Vicky Coyle, UK lead researcher for the trial and clinical professor at Queen's University Belfast, said: 'During the trial, we supported people to reach their weekly exercise target in a way that worked for them. 'This could be a brisk walk for around 40 minutes every day, but some patients were also doing circuit classes, cycling, swimming, and many other activities. 'Our study gives clear, encouraging evidence that physical activity can reduce the risk of cancer returning for some people with colon cancer. 'We now need to work with policymakers and healthcare providers to embed exercise into treatment plans where appropriate.' Dr Joe Henson, associate professor in lifestyle medicine at the University of Leicester, said: 'Leading the exercise sessions in Leicester, I saw first-hand that this reduced fatigue, lifted people's mood, and boosted their physical strength. 'We know that physical activity regulates several key biological processes that could explain these results, and further research will help us uncover why exercise is having such a positive impact.' The findings, published in the New England Journal of Medicine and presented at the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO), could 'transform clinical practice', according to experts. Caroline Geraghty, senior specialist information nurse at Cancer Research UK, which part-funded the CO21 Challenge through Stand Up To Cancer, said: 'Being active has many benefits, and this study shows that exercise doesn't only improve well-being – it can also boost people's chances of surviving colon cancer. 'Everyone recovering from cancer should have access to tailored support to help them live longer, better lives. 'This trial has the potential to transform clinical practice, but only if health services have the necessary funding and staff to make it a reality for patients. 'It's important to remember that every cancer journey is different – starting new activities after treatment can feel overwhelming, and it may not be the right option for everyone. Take things at your own pace and speak to your doctor to discuss what is safe for you.' Professor Peter Johnson, NHS national clinical director for cancer, said: 'These exciting findings add to the growing evidence of the benefits of physical activity for people affected by cancer, not just in helping them be fitter for treatment and boosting their immediate recovery, but reducing the risk of the disease coming back. 'This is why we've asked cancer alliances across the country to look at ways to encourage and support patients to do physical activity and ensure every healthcare professional they see can help them be in the best possible place – both physically and mentally – before, during and after treatment.'
