Physical activity and nutritional interventions and health-related quality of life in colorectal cancer survivors: a review

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: Once often perceived as a death sentence, colorectal cancer (CRC) is now a frequently treatable illness for most and a chronic disease for many. The number of people living with a diagnosis of CRC is expected to rise. Even after successful treatment, CRC survivors, mostly the elderly, frequently experience health problems and impaired quality of life (QoL). Areas covered: We present a review on the effects of physical activity and/or nutritional interventions in the QoL of CRC survivors as well as an explanatory introduction to the topic. Expert commentary: Targeting unhealthy lifestyle behavior of these vulnerable individuals during post-treatment care is a promising strategy for improving their health status and QoL, but more evidence is needed, especially for QoL. Thus, besides survival, efforts should also be directed toward improving the QoL of CRC survivors.