The association between physical activity and long-term fatigue in colorectal cancer survivors

This study investigated the effects of physical activity (PA) and long-term fatigue (tiredness) in patients with colorectal cancer. Researchers suggested that PA after the diagnosis is associated with less tiredness in these patients.

Colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in men and the second in women worldwide. Early detection and improvements in treatment have helped to increase the number of survivors. However, many survivors experience long-term effects such as tiredness, which affects their quality of life. 

Prior studies suggested that PA is associated with less tiredness. However, previous studies include short follow-up periods. Therefore, too little is known about the effect of PA in long-term tiredness in patients with colorectal cancer.

This study included information about 1781 colorectal cancer survivors. PA was assessed at diagnosis and at 5 years follow-up. Questionnaires were filled by the participants to assess tiredness.

This study found no significant association between PA before the diagnosis and less tiredness. Moreover, PA before diagnosis was associated with increased levels of physical and mental tiredness when performed at an intense rate.

After diagnosis, however, PA was strongly associated with lower physical, mental, and emotional tiredness.

This study concluded that PA after the diagnosis is associated with less tiredness in colorectal cancer survivors.

This study was based on information from medical records. Data may have been missing. Further studies are needed.