Heart-healthy habits slash mortality risk for cancer survivors by 40%

Cancer survivors may live longer by following heart-healthy habits after treatment. A study in the European Heart Journal found that adopting seven key lifestyle principles can cut mortality risk by nearly 40%. Even small improvements in cardiovascular health appear to make a significant difference.

The research highlights how cancer and heart disease share common risk factors. Both conditions can be influenced by diet, physical activity, smoking, and weight management. Experts suggest these overlaps mean that better heart health could directly benefit cancer survivors.

The study focused on the Life’s Simple 7 guidelines, which include eating well, staying active, avoiding tobacco, and keeping blood pressure in check. Each one-point gain in a patient’s score for these habits was linked to a 10% drop in cancer-related deaths. Survivors with ideal heart health had a 38% lower risk of dying early compared to those with poor cardiovascular health. Doctors recommend practical steps to build these habits. Sustainable changes, like shifting to a Mediterranean-style diet, choosing whole foods over processed options, and making gradual exercise increases, can help. The goal is long-term consistency rather than short-term fixes. Integrating heart health advice into cancer follow-up care could become standard practice. By addressing shared risk factors, healthcare teams may improve survival rates for those who have beaten cancer.

The findings suggest that cancer survivors who prioritise heart health gain measurable benefits. Better diet, regular movement, and avoiding smoking not only protect the heart but also reduce the risk of cancer returning. Healthcare providers may now push for these lifestyle changes as part of routine aftercare.