A healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk of death by around 30% for individuals who have survived cancer, according to a study published this year by researchers at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ). The findings, based on over 6,000 cancer survivors across Germany followed for up to twelve years, highlight the significant impact of lifestyle choices even after a cancer diagnosis.
The study, detailed in the European Journal of Epidemiology, focused on individuals who had been diagnosed with breast, colon, or prostate cancer at least five years prior. Researchers analyzed the influence of factors such as smoking, physical activity, body weight, and alcohol consumption on overall mortality rates. The most substantial impact was observed with smoking cessation, with those who had never smoked experiencing nearly 50% fewer deaths during the study period compared to current smokers.
“A healthy lifestyle helps not only to avoid cancer, but can also make a big difference after a cancer diagnosis,” said study leader Volker Arndt, as reported by Frankfurter Rundschau. The benefits of a healthy lifestyle were consistent regardless of age, gender, cancer type, or the presence of other chronic conditions like cardiovascular or metabolic diseases.
Germany currently has more than five million people living with a history of cancer, the majority having survived for more than five years. Still, the study revealed that over half of these long-term survivors do not fully adhere to recommendations for a healthy lifestyle. This gap underscores the potential for targeted interventions and support programs.
Researchers suggest that lifestyle programs, particularly those focused on smoking cessation and increased physical activity, could significantly improve both the life expectancy and quality of life for cancer survivors. The study emphasizes the require for enhanced follow-up care that incorporates personalized lifestyle guidance and support.
