Colorectal Cancer: Recurrence: Managing Medical Care

Our document about Exercise describes the importance of exercise, how to exercise smart, how to find programs that could work for you and similar subjects. With respect to colorectal cancer in particular: 

• Exercise may also help prevent recurrence of colorectal cancer. Recent studies show that lack of physical activity increases the risk of developing colon cancer. This is in line with other studies which show that people who exercise regularly have about a 30-40 percent reduction in their risk of contracting colon cancer. Physical activity improves quality of life and diminishes emotional swings.
• If you have urinary incontinence, exercises known as Kegel exercises can help. To learn more, click here. 
• You can exercise with an ostomy. (For more information, click here.)

If you have special needs, there are exercise programs designed for people with cancer throughout the country.

How To Keep Exercising Over Time

Exercise can be difficult to sustain over time. Think about techniques to help keep you motivated. For instance:

• Set up a system that reminds you periodically of why you exercise. For example, a posting on your refrigerator, or an alert that pops up on your computer every few weeks.
• Find a buddy to exercise with. (One of the advantages of classes or gyms for people with cancer is the company and support of people in a similar situation). Note that an exercise buddy is not necessarily the same as a cancer buddy. (To find a cancer buddy, go to the site of the Colon Cancer Alliance )

For more information about exercise, see the document in "To Learn More."

NOTE: Check with your doctor before starting new exercise or increasing current exercise levels.

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