Lifestyle Changes Linked to Improved Survival in Cancer Survivors

Cancer survivors can enhance their longevity by adhering to the diet and exercise guidelines set by the American Cancer Society (ACS), according to a recent study published on April 3, 2025, in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute.

The study found that non-smoking survivors of obesity-related cancers who embraced ACS lifestyle recommendations after treatment had a significantly lower overall risk of death. Notably, these individuals showed a lower incidence of fatalities from heart diseases or from another cancer diagnosis.

As noted by Ying Wang, lead investigator and senior principal scientist at the ACS, a cancer diagnosis can prompt individuals to consider healthier living strategies, as many survivors are eager to learn about changes that can increase their longevity.

The ACS updated its guidelines in 2022, putting emphasis on maintaining a healthy weight, engaging in regular exercise, consuming a nutritious diet, and limiting alcohol consumption.

To evaluate the guidelines’ effectiveness, researchers examined the lifestyle behaviors of over 3,700 participants from a long-term cancer risk study initiated in 1992. The focus was on survivors of obesity-related cancers, such as breast, colon, and pancreatic cancers, given the strong influence of lifestyle factors on these diseases.

Tracking participants for over 15 years, the study revealed that those most compliant with the ACS guidelines experienced a 24% lower risk of death from any cause. Specifically, there was a 33% reduction in heart-related mortality and a 21% decrease in cancer-related deaths.

Furthermore, maintaining an optimal body mass index (BMI) corresponded to a 10% overall reduction in death risk and a 27% drop in the risk of dying from heart diseases. Meanwhile, those meeting the recommended exercise levels had a 22% lower overall risk of death and a 26% reduced risk of death linked to heart ailments.

“These results highlight the importance of making informed lifestyle choices for enhancing cancer survival,” stated Wang.

The ACS recommends that cancer survivors engage in:

• 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise weekly, or 70-150 minutes of vigorous activity, or a combination thereof.
• Reduce sitting time and promote physical activity.
• Consume ample portions of vegetables, fruits, and whole grains.
• Limit or avoid red and processed meats, sugary beverages, refined grains, and highly processed foods.
• Restrict or eliminate alcohol intake.
• Maintain a healthy body weight.

For further information, please refer to the lifestyle recommendations provided by the American Cancer Society.