Mixed
Post-diagnosis moderate-intensity recreational physical activity (approx. 3 hours/week) is associated with a 24-67% reduction in total mortality and 50-53% reduction in breast cancer-specific mortality in women with breast cancer.
If you have breast cancer, aim for about 3 hours of moderate activity (like brisk walking) per week. This is associated with significantly lower risks of dying from breast cancer or other causes. Start slowly, ensure it is safe for your specific condition (e.g., no lymphedema exacerbation), and ask your oncologist for a referral to a certified cancer exercise trainer to get a tailored plan.
These studies have demonstrated a 24–67% reduction in the risk of total deaths and 50–53% reduction in the risk of breast cancer deaths in women who are physically active after breast cancer diagnosis compared with women reporting no recreational physical activity after diagnosis.
Why this rating
Based on large observational studies; the paper explicitly notes the lack of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on survival itself, though surrogate markers are supported by RCTs.
Source
Physical activity interventions for cancer survivors: Figure 1
Melinda L. Irwin · British Journal of Sports Medicine · 2008
DOI 10.1136/bjsm.2008.053843
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- Physician recommendation and referral to certified cancer exercise trainers significantly increases physical activity levels in breast cancer survivors compared to usual care.Good
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