Dr Louisa Liu speaks to ecancer about the longitudinal study on the influence of physical activity in managing cancer-related fatigue in patients with colorectal cancer.

In this study, higher levels of physical activity were associated with lower cancer-related fatigue and better quality of life among patients with colorectal cancer.

Walking showed the most consistent and early benefit, particularly within the first year after diagnosis in non-metastatic disease, while moderate and vigorous activity were more impactful during later survivorship.

Physical activity maintained around 12 months post-diagnosis emerged as the strongest predictor of reduced long-term fatigue and improved quality of life.

These findings highlight walking as a practical, low-risk intervention and support incorporating stage- and recovery-specific physical activity recommendations into colorectal cancer survivorship care.