The American Cancer Society has released its 2022 Nutrition and Physical Activity Guideline for Cancer Survivors report. Released in the ACS CA Journal: A Cancer Journal for Clinicians, the report details the importance of regular physical activity and a healthy diet for cancer survivors.
The report is intended for cancer survivors and their families, as well as health care providers that care for cancer survivors. The guideline serves as a resource for informing American Cancer Society programs, health policy, and the media.
According to the report, there has been a decline in the cancer death rate of roughly 32% in the past 30 years. Cancer survival and recovery has increased as well, with 16.9 million survivors in the U.S. as of 2019.
ACS advises cancer patients to avoid obesity and build or maintain muscle mass. They recommend taking note of the type of cancer, patient’s health and treatment modalities when considering physical activity. Also, following a healthy eating pattern that meets nutrient needs and is consistent with health advisories will help supplement physical health.
This is the third ACS guideline released that touches on nutrition and physical activity. The previous two reports were in 2006 and 2012. The 2022 installment differs from its predecessors as it provides evidence-based, cancer-specific recommendations aimed towards reducing recurrence and increasing overall mortality.
The full report is available here, and more information regarding cancer research and patient and survivor resources can be found at the American Cancer Society website.
