International Journal of Sport, Exercise and Health Research 2025; 9(2): 59-64 ; DOI:10.31254/sportmed.9205
Exercise Plays a Crucial Role in Cancer Prevention and Treatment: A Mini-Review
1. Independent researcher, Finland
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Received: 1st November, 2025 / Accepted: 6th February, 2026 / Published : 12th February, 2026
Cancer is the leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, causing nearly 10 million deaths annually. Evidence suggests that exercise is effective in preventing cancer, improving treatment outcomes, and lowering the risk of recurrence. Therefore, the purpose was to explore how exercise plays a crucial role in cancer prevention, treatment, and enhancement of patient`s quality of life. This study also highlighted and evaluated the potential anti-cancer mechanisms at the biomolecular level. Additionally, this review summarized the latest evidence-based physical activity guidelines for cancer patients. The findings suggested that the mechanisms through which exercise reduces cancer risk and progression included cellular repair pathways, reduced systemic inflammation, the metabolic profile of hormones, increased insulin sensitivity, immune system enhancement, increased antioxidant capacity, and direct tumor effects. It was also observed that regular physical activity not only reduced cancer risk but also significantly alleviated adverse effects of cancer treatments and enhanced efficacy of radiotherapy. There is strong evidence on the effect of physical activity on cancer-related fatigue, health-related quality of life, anxiety, depression, lymphedema, and physical function, as well as moderate evidence on bone health and sleep. Current evidence suggests 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and resistance training twice a week for cancer patients. In conclusion, this review indicated remarkable anticarcinogenic benefits of exercise, including reduced tumor incidence, inhibited tumor growth, reduced treatment-related adverse effects, improved treatment outcomes, and lower risk of recurrence. The findings support the integration of exercise into standard oncology care protocols and strategies across all stages of disease. This could significantly improve quality of life and survival rates of cancer patients worldwide. Future research should focus on examining specific biomolecular mechanisms, particularly the role of myokines, to develop therapeutic strategies for cancer patients. Interdisciplinary teams could ensure that exercise interventions are safe, effective, and specifically tailored to patient demographics and types of cancer. Psychosocial and motivational factors should also be considered when designing exercise programs for patients. Additionally, the use of artificial intelligence to promote physical activity among cancer patients should be investigated. Randomized controlled trials and longitudinal cohort studies are also needed to understand the long-term impact of exercise on health outcomes, cancer recurrence and survival.
Cancer, Exercise, Myokine, Physical Activity, Prevention, Treatment.
