A major international trial has found that regular exercise, including swimming, can reduce the risk of death in colon cancer patients by over a third.
The three-year trial, involving nearly 900 colon cancer patients, showed that people who followed a structured exercise programme had better long-term outcomes than those who were only given general lifestyle advice. Half of the patients were put on an exercise regime, while the other half were given leaflets promoting a healthy lifestyle.
Patients who exercised:
- 80% remained cancer-free
- 28% less likely to see their cancer return
- At 37% lower risk of death in the following eight years post treatment
Researchers say any form of moderate-intensity exercise can help, including swimming, water aerobics, aqua jogging, and even pool-based dance classes.
Why Swimming Works
Swimming and Aquatic activities is believed to reduce inflammation, regulate hormones, and strengthen the immune system, all crucial for recovering from illnesses. Exercising in water offers additional advantages for people recovering from treatment:
Boosts mood and combats fatigue, both common challenges for cancer survivors
Low-impact and joint-friendly, making it accessible even for those with limited mobility or fatigue
Improves cardiovascular health while reducing stress on the body
Swimming is a life-saving, life-enhancing activity, not just for fitness, but as part of treatment and recovery.
