An executive summary of reports from an international multidisciplinary roundtable on exercise and cancer: Evidence, guidelines, and implementation

Abstract

Physical activity can play an important role in cancer prevention and control, but there is a need to update the state of the science to best facilitate dissemination and implementation of evidence into practice. The American College of Sports Medicine convened an International Multidisciplinary Roundtable on Exercise and Cancer to update recommendations based on current evidence on the role of physical activity and exercise in cancer prevention and survivorship. There was strong evidence for a protective effect of physical activity against colon, breast, endometrial, kidney, bladder, esophagus, and stomach cancer; moderate evidence that pre-diagnosis physical activity may reduce risk of dying from breast and colon cancer; and, moderate evidence that higher levels of physical activity post-diagnosis are associated with lower risk of dying from colon, breast, and prostate cancer. For cancer survivors, an exercise prescription for moderate intensity aerobic and/or resistance exercise at least 3 times per week, 30 minutes/sessions, for at least 8-12 weeks may consistently improve common treatment-related symptoms and side effects. To implement this knowledge, an Exercise Is Medicine approach was adapted to the cancer context. Oncology clinicians are asked to: 1) assess current physical activity levels and safety to engage in exercise, 2) advise patients to increase physical activity if not currently reaching recommended levels, and 3) refer individuals to appropriate services. Exercise can play a vital role in prevention and management of cancer. The Roundtable update provides physical therapists with practical, evidence-based information for utilization of exercise as a treatment strategy and models for implementation.