cpdclinicalbiochem.co.ukCPDCLINICALBIOCHEM.CO.UKCPDCLINICALBIOCHEM.CO.UK3008-044410.61336/cpdcb/2004-01-06Physical activity after cancer: An evidence review of the international literatureRobert JamesThomasMea NoneHolmAli NoneAl-AdhamiBedford Hospital and Addenbrooke’s University Hospital, c/o The Primrose Research Unit, Bedford Hospital, Kempston Road, Bedford. MK42 9DJ. United Kingdom.MSc, STUDENT c/o The Primrose Research Unit, Bedford Hospital, Kempston Road, Bedford. MK42 9DJ. United Kingdom.MBChB MACP, CLINICAL RESEARCH FELLOW, University of Buckingham and the Lister Hospital, Coreys Mill Lane, Stevenage, Hertfordshire. SG1 4AB. United Kingdom.The importance of physical activity during and after cancer treatments is now being appreciated, as emerging evidence suggests that it improves several common side-effects of cancer treatments, as well as correlating with improving overall survival and reduced the probability of relapse. The biological mechanisms through which these benefits are achieved may include effects on cell growth regulatory pathways, levels of hormones, gene expression patterns and tumour immunity. Here we review the evidence for the benefits of exercise during and after cancer, discuss the possible underlying biological mechanisms, and suggest ways in which this knowledge may be used to improve mainstream care of cancer patients.