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News
Cancer survivors are getting more active, but still trail the general population. A new study tracking data from 2018 to 2024 found physical activity rates among cancer survivors rose from 67.1% to 71.6% — a meaningful gain — yet survivors remain nearly 4 percentage points less active than adults without a cancer history. Experts say boosting activity in this group is critical for reducing fatigue, improving mental health, and enhancing overall quality of life.
Cancer survivors are making strides in physical activity, but a gap remains. A study published in AJPM Focus, using data from the Behavioral Risk Factor and Surveillance Survey (2018–2024), found that physical activity (PA) prevalence among cancer survivors rose significantly — from 67.1% to 71.6% — while rates among adults without a cancer history showed a much smaller increase (76.3% to 78.3%).
Despite the encouraging trend, cancer survivors still showed a 3.8 percentage-point lower adjusted prevalence of physical activity compared to their peers. Adherence to aerobic PA guidelines was similar across both groups.
Researchers from Washington University in St. Louis emphasize that regular physical activity after a cancer diagnosis is linked to reduced cancer-related fatigue, better mental health, improved physical functioning, and enhanced overall quality of life.
By the Numbers:
Why it matters: Cancer survivors face unique health challenges that make physical activity especially beneficial — yet they consistently exercise less than the general population. Closing this gap could meaningfully improve long-term outcomes for the growing number of cancer survivors worldwide.
