In a nutshell
This study investigated the effects of exercise on recovery from colorectal cancer surgery. Researchers reported that exercise was associated with an improved recovery.
Some background
Recovery after surgery is only complete when the patient is able to return to normal day-to-day life. Not all colorectal cancer patients recover their pre-surgery level of physical well-being. Several studies have reported that active patients have improved recoveries. The effects of exercise on recovery after a colorectal surgery is not yet clear.
Methods & findings
This study included information about 327 patients who underwent colorectal surgery. Patients completed questionnaires on physical exercise and recovery after surgery and six months later.
After 6 months, 54% of the patients had not recovered to pre-surgery levels of physical well-being. Patients who were active for at least 60 minutes per week were 43% more likely to have a better recovery.
The bottom line
This study determined that exercise was associated with faster recovery after surgery.
What’s next?
Always discuss physical activity with your doctor before starting an exercise program.
Published By :
BMC cancer
Date :
Jan 25, 2017
