Lung cancer, affecting a large number of individuals annually than any other malignancy, has sparked new hope through a groundbreaking study led by Curtin University. This study delved into the lives of individuals diagnosed with incurable forms of the disease, uncovering a remarkable correlation: those who engaged in as little as five minutes or less of daily physical activity displayed potential for extended survival rates.
The study, conducted with 89 patients diagnosed with incurable lung cancer, tracked their daily activities from diagnosis. Researchers, comprising a team from Curtin School of Allied Health, Curtin enAble Institute, and other research institutions, compared mortality rates after 12 months between two groups: those who participated in moderate-to-vigorous physical activity, like walking, versus those who were largely inactive. The results were stunning.
Participants engaging in over 4.6 minutes per day of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity displayed a remarkable 60% lower risk of mortality after 12 months compared to the less active group.
Associate Professor Vin Cavalheri, the study lead and former Cancer Council WA postdoctoral Fellow, emphasized the potential significance of these findings, particularly in the early treatment of inoperable lung cancer.
“We previously observed minimal physical activity among individuals with inoperable lung cancer before treatment began,” Cavalheri stated. “These new findings stress the importance for healthcare providers to assess a patient’s physical activity levels early in managing inoperable lung cancer.”
He highlighted the need to customize physical activity plans for each individual rather than adhering strictly to generalized guidelines that might be unattainable for some.
“It’s crucial to recognize the individual’s circumstances and goals when designing physical activity or exercise plans,” Cavalheri explained. “This approach acknowledges the complexity of each person’s experience and aims to create strategies that are both practical and sustainable, increasing the likelihood of successful adoption of physical activity as an integral part of their lives.”
Cavalheri also challenged the common belief that bed rest is always the best option during illness. He pointed out that this study adds to the mounting evidence suggesting the benefits of staying active even while coping with severe diseases like cancer.
“The link between higher physical activity levels and reduced mortality aligns with previous studies involving the general adult population and individuals diagnosed with other diseases like colorectal cancer, breast cancer, prostate cancer, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease,” Cavalheri noted. “Confirmation of this association may warrant randomized controlled trials focusing on interventions to improve physical activity levels specifically in individuals with inoperable lung cancer.”
(Inputs from ANI)