Walking and Grip Strength: Simple Tests for Better Lives After Colorectal Cancer

In Europe, the number of people living with cancer is growing by 3. 5% each year since 2010. Out of all these survivors, 38% will live a decade or more after their diagnosis. Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most common cancer among survivors, and many of them will be over 75 years old, needing long-term care. A recent study wanted to see if physical fitness could improve the day-to-day lives of people with CRC. They looked at two simple tests: how far someone can walk in six minutes and how strong their grip is. These tests might seem basic, but they could tell us a lot about a person's overall health and well-being. The study also dug deeper, examining specific areas like physical health, mental well-being, and social interactions. This is important because surviving cancer is not just about living longer; it's about living better. The results showed that better physical fitness, as measured by these simple tests, was linked to a better quality of life. This means that even small improvements in fitness could make a big difference in how survivors feel and function. This study is a reminder that fitness is not just about looking good; it's about feeling good and living well. For CRC survivors, simple tests like walking and grip strength could be key to a better life.