Physical exercise as a potential adjuvant therapy: effects on inflammation and nutrition in colorectal cancer patients-a systematic review and meta-analysis.

Abstract

<h4>Introduction</h4>This meta-analysis aimed to reveal the effects of exercise training on markers of inflammation and indicators of nutrition in colorectal cancer patients.<h4>Methods</h4>We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane, and Web of Knowledge for randomized controlled trials (published between 1 January 1945 and 17 June 2024). Our main outcomes were nutritional status and markers of inflammation analyzed using a random-effects model.<h4>Results</h4>Of the 3,081 identified studies, 15 were eligible and were included in our analysis (<i>N</i> = 996 participants). Compared with the usual care, physical exercise reduced C-reactive protein by a mean of -0.33 mg/dL (95% CI -0.62 to -0.04) in colorectal cancer patients. Similarly, body fat decreased by a mean of -1.36% (95% CI -2.52 to -0.99) after physical exercise. However, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor-alpha, and waist circumference were not different between patients who received physical exercise and those who received usual care. Subgroup analyses revealed that exercise duration ≤12 weeks was effective in decreasing body mass index of -0.59 kg/m² (95% CI -1.15 to -0.02) and body weight of -3.12 kg (95% CI -4.66 to -1.58). In addition, body mass index (<i>p</i> = 0.005) and body weight (<i>p</i> = 0.03) were decreased in patients who combined aerobic exercise and resistance exercise.<h4>Conclusion</h4>Overall, these findings suggest that physical exercise may improve inflammation status and enhance weight loss in CRC patients.<h4>Systematic review registration</h4>Number CRD 42024536976.