Combined Effects of Physical Activity and Diet on Cancer Patients

Introduction: The recent systematic review and meta-analysis by Dinas et al. (2024) sheds light on the significant benefits of combining physical activity and dietary interventions for cancer patients and survivors. The study explores the effects of these interventions on various health indices, quality of life (QoL), and depression in patients with breast, lung, colorectal, prostate, stomach, and liver cancers.

Study Overview: The systematic review followed PRISMA guidelines, incorporating data from 38 eligible randomized controlled trials (RCTs) involving adult cancer patients and survivors. The interventions analyzed included various forms of physical activity (resistance, aerobic, and combined) and dietary modifications (balanced diets, specific nutrient interventions, and weight loss programs).

Key Findings:

1. Reduction in Body Weight and Fat Mass:
   • The combined interventions significantly reduced body mass index (BMI), body weight, and fat mass. Specifically, the average reduction in body weight was approximately 2.88 kg, and fat mass decreased by 2.85 kg.
   • These reductions are crucial as excessive body weight and adiposity are associated with an increased risk of cancer recurrence and progression.
2. Improvement in Insulin Sensitivity and Inflammation:
   • The interventions led to lower insulin levels and improved homeostatic model assessment for insulin resistance (HOMA-IR). This improvement is vital since high insulin levels can promote cancer cell proliferation.
   • There was also a reduction in C-reactive protein (CRP) levels, indicating decreased inflammation, which is beneficial as chronic inflammation is linked to cancer progression.
3. Enhanced Lipidemic Profile:
   • The interventions resulted in higher levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) and lower triglycerides, contributing to a better overall lipid profile. Improved lipid profiles are beneficial in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, which cancer patients are at higher risk for.
4. Quality of Life and Mental Health:
   • Patients who underwent the combined interventions reported improvements in the physical component of their QoL and general functional assessment of cancer therapy (FACT-general).
   • There was also a significant decrease in depression levels, highlighting the mental health benefits of these interventions.

Practical Implications: These findings underscore the importance of incorporating structured physical activity and dietary interventions into the standard care of cancer patients and survivors. Healthcare providers should consider personalized programs that combine aerobic and resistance exercises with dietary plans tailored to the patient’s needs.

Conclusion: The study by Dinas et al. provides moderate-quality evidence that a combined intervention of physical activity and diet can yield substantial health benefits for cancer patients and survivors. These interventions not only help in weight management and improving metabolic health but also enhance the overall quality of life and mental well-being, thereby potentially reducing the risk of cancer recurrence.

Reference: https://doi.org/10.3390/nu16111749