The impact of physical activity on cancer prevention, treatment, and quality of life in cancer patients

Abstract

Background: Cancer remains one of the leading global public health challenges, with a growing number of patients living during and after oncological treatment. Physical activity has increasingly been recognized as an important non-pharmacological strategy in cancer prevention, treatment support, rehabilitation, and survivorship care. Objective: The aim of this review is to examine the impact of physical activity on cancer prevention, treatment-related outcomes, and quality of life among individuals diagnosed with cancer. Methods: A structured literature search was conducted in Web of Science, PubMed, and Scopus databases. The search included studies published in English and focused on physical activity, exercise interventions, cancer prevention, cancer treatment, cancer-related fatigue, survivorship, and quality of life. Systematic reviews, meta-analyses, randomized controlled trials, cohort studies, and clinical guidelines were considered. Results: Previous evidence suggests that regular physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of several cancer types, especially breast, colorectal, and endometrial cancers. During and after treatment, exercise interventions may improve physical functioning, reduce cancer-related fatigue, support mental health, and enhance health-related quality of life. Conclusion: Physical activity represents a safe and effective supportive strategy across the cancer continuum. Its integration into oncology care may contribute to prevention, better treatment tolerance, rehabilitation, and improved quality of life among cancer patients and survivors.