Physical fitness is typically associated with health benefits, and we generally consider exercise good. Many studies have shown that this relates to cancer, where exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of developing cancer. Studies have shown that obesity raises the risk of mortality in cancer patients.

Data recently published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine suggests that staying fit could reduce the risk of dying from cancer. The study looked at two different readouts for fitness: muscle strength and cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF).

The researchers undertook a comprehensive review and meta-analysis by examining peer-reviewed studies published before August 2023. The analysis included 42 studies encompassing over 46,000 patients.