Healthy Lifestyle Adherence Extends Survival in Prostate Cancer Survivors, Study Finds

A recent study published in JAMA Network Open highlights that men diagnosed with non-metastatic prostate cancer who follow the American Cancer Society's (ACS) nutrition and physical activity guidelines tend to live longer. The research tracked over 4,200 men aged 65 to 73, diagnosed between 1992 and 2003, for up to 14 years. Findings showed that those with the highest adherence to the guidelines—such as maintaining a body mass index (BMI) below 30, engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of vigorous aerobic activity weekly, and avoiding obesity—were 23% less likely to die from any cause and 25% less likely to succumb to cardiovascular disease compared to men with low adherence.

The study emphasizes that adopting healthier lifestyle behaviors can significantly improve survival outcomes, even if changes are made after diagnosis. Dr. Valeria Elahy, lead author and a post-doctoral fellow in cancer epidemiology at the ACS, stated, "Even men who were not following the guidelines before their diagnosis but improved afterward experienced lower mortality risks. It's never too late to benefit from healthier habits."

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading non-cancer cause of death among prostate cancer survivors, making cardiovascular health a key factor in their longevity. Researchers believe that lifestyle modifications—regular physical activity, healthy eating, and weight management—are critical in reducing mortality risks. Future efforts should focus on supporting survivors in maintaining these behaviors.

This research underscores the importance of lifestyle interventions in prostate cancer survivorship and encourages patients and healthcare providers to prioritize healthy habits to enhance quality and length of life. The study was supported by contributions from several ACS researchers, including Christina Newton and Dr. Lauren Teras. The full study can be accessed through the DOI: 10.1001/jamanetworkopen.2025.33922.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-prostate-cancer-survivors-healthy-lifestyle.html