A recent study presented at the American Heart Association’s Epidemiology and Prevention | Lifestyle and Cardiometabolic Health Scientific Sessions 2025 reveals that postmenopausal women with a history of cancer who engage in more daily steps and moderate-to-vigorous physical activity have a significantly lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease. The research, which analyzed data from nearly 2,500 women aged 63 to 99, underscores the importance of staying active for overall health and longevity after cancer treatment.

The findings highlight the critical role of physical activity in enhancing survival rates among cancer survivors. Researchers examined data from the Women’s Health Accelerometry Collaboration, focusing on the relationship between physical activity, sedentary behavior, and mortality outcomes. Participants wore accelerometers to record their daily movements, including light, moderate-to-vigorous activities, and step counts. The analysis revealed that even modest increases in daily steps or moderate exercise could substantially reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease.

Eric Hyde, Ph.D., M.P.H., lead author of the study, emphasized that walking and engaging in various forms of physical activity can provide significant health benefits, even when performed at lower intensities. "The road to an active lifestyle is more accessible than we often assume, and the benefits are available to everyone, including those navigating life after cancer," noted Keith Diaz, Ph.D., a certified exercise physiologist from Columbia University Medical Center.

The study also found that prolonged sitting was associated with increased risks of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. For every additional 102 minutes spent sitting per day, there was a notable rise in these risks. This finding adds to the growing evidence that reducing sedentary time is crucial for maintaining health, especially for cancer survivors.

Hyde pointed out that while the study provides valuable insights, it has limitations, such as the lack of data on cancer stages and treatments. Future research should measure physical activity at multiple points before, during, and after cancer treatment to better understand its impact on survival.

The study's implications suggest that encouraging cancer survivors to increase their daily activity levels and reduce sedentary behavior can be an effective strategy to prolong life and mitigate cardiovascular risks. These findings contribute to a broader understanding of how lifestyle changes can support long-term health and well-being in this population.