(RxWiki News) Physical activity may be the most important lifestyle choice in helping to keep breast cancer from coming back, according to a new study.
Another important lifestyle factor in potentially preventing breast cancer recurrence was maintaining a healthy weight, which can go hand in hand with consistent exercise.
"Of all lifestyle factors, physical activity has the most robust effect on breast cancer outcomes," wrote the Sunnybrook Health Sciences Centre researchers behind this study. "Weight gain of more than 10 percent body weight after a breast cancer diagnosis increases breast cancer mortality and all-cause mortality. However, there are good reasons to discourage even moderate weight gain because of its negative effects on mood and body image."
This study looked back at 67 past studies on lifestyle factors and breast cancer recurrence. Other lifestyle factors included smoking, alcohol consumption and diet.
With their doctors' approval, women should get 30 minutes of moderate exercise five days a week or 75 minutes of vigorous exercise each week, according to these researchers.
Talk to your doctor about healthy lifestyle choices after a breast cancer diagnosis.
This study was published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.
The study authors disclosed no outside funding sources or potential conflicts of interest.
