Physical activity reduces fatigue and improves quality of life in colorectal cancer survivors

Dr Louisa Liu speaks to ecancer about the longitudinal study on the influence of physical activity in managing cancer-related fatigue in patients with colorectal cancer.

In this study, higher levels of physical activity were associated with lower cancer-related fatigue and better quality of life among patients with colorectal cancer.

Walking showed the most consistent and early benefit, particularly within the first year after diagnosis in non-metastatic disease, while moderate and vigorous activity were more impactful during later survivorship.

Physical activity maintained around 12 months post-diagnosis emerged as the strongest predictor of reduced long-term fatigue and improved quality of life.

These findings highlight walking as a practical, low-risk intervention and support incorporating stage- and recovery-specific physical activity recommendations into colorectal cancer survivorship care.