Exercise Study for Colorectal Cancer Survivors

Dr. Heather Leach, Ph.D. of Colorado State University and Dr. Wells Messersmith, M.D. of University of Colorado Cancer Center have teamed up to help colorectal cancer survivors become and stay physically active.

In the United States, colorectal cancer is the third most common cancer in women, second most common in men, and it is estimated that by 2024, 1.6 million Americans will be living with this diagnosis. With improved screening and treatment for colorectal cancer, it is important to find ways to enhance quality of life and improve survival rates among colorectal cancer survivors.

There is strong evidence that physical activity can have a significant, positive impact on several health outcomes including quality of life and physical function, but many colorectal cancer survivors struggle to achieve the amount physical activity needed to see these benefits. There is a critical need to explore innovative ways to help colorectal cancer survivors achieve and maintain the recommended levels of physical activity

Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine whether a virtual exercise intervention can help colorectal cancer survivors increase their physical activity and determine which factors can help them stay active after the intervention ends.

This study is supported by the American Cancer Society (131629-MRSG-18-021-01-CPPB) and the University of Colorado Cancer Center.

Who: Anyone diagnosed with colon and/or rectal cancer (age ≥ 40 years), who have completed surgery, chemotherapy and/or radiation treatment within the last 5 years.

You must be willing to be randomly assigned to either an intervention or control group

Intervention and control participants will attend three study visits over 9 months that consist of physical activity and sleep monitoring, measures of fitness, body composition and quality of life, and optional blood draws
The intervention will consist of virtual, group-based exercise and discussion sessions twice per week for 12-weeks

Participation includes:

Individual fitness assessments
Virtually supervised exercise with a qualified exercise professional
Behavioral support and strategies to help maintain long-term physical activity
All participants may receive compensation

Intervention and control participants will attend three study visits over 9 months that consist of physical activity and sleep monitoring, measures of fitness, body composition and quality of life, and optional blood draws
The intervention will consist of virtual, group-based exercise and discussion sessions twice per week for 12-weeks

Tools & Resources

CU Campuses

CU Anschutz Medical Campus

University of Colorado Cancer Center

School of Medicine

Exercise Study for Colorectal Cancer Survivors

Sign Up Form

Cancer Center (SOM)

Exercise Study for Colorectal Cancer Survivors

Step 1 – Are you eligible?

Step 2 – Want more information?

Step 3 – Attend baseline testing

Step 4 – Begin the study

Step 5 – Complete end of program testing

Step 6 – Complete follow up testing

Cancer Center (SOM)