Regular Exercise Linked to Fewer Cancer Cases
8/9/2022
POPLAR BLUFF, Mo – Only five hours a week of moderate exercise could help ward off a cancer diagnosis. A study published by Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise, the journal of the American College of Sports Medicine, found strong evidence correlating physical activity to lower rates of cancer and other chronic conditions like heart disease, stroke, and dementia.
Using self-reported data from 600,000 U.S. adults, the observational study estimates over 46,000 cancer cases could be avoided each year through regular physical activity. The study found lower rates of common cancers such as stomach, breast, and colon in Americans 30 years or older who exercised 300 minutes, or five hours each week.
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“Incorporating regular physical activity into your everyday lifestyle can offer immediate and lasting benefits to your overall health,” says Dr. Rosmin Jos. “Exercise as simple as brisk walking, biking or even cleaning the house can help improve your health and decrease the chances of developing a chronic condition like cancer.”
The National Cancer Institute also reports strong evidence linking high levels of physical activity to lower risk of cancers thanks to the biological effects it has on the body. Exercise can help improve the immune system and help prevent obesity and high blood levels of insulin which are all risk factors for cancer.
Beyond exercise, there are other lifestyle changes that can help prevent cancer. Avoid tobacco and secondhand smoke to reduce the chance of developing lung or throat cancer. Consider limiting alcohol to one drink or less per day for women and two drinks or less per day for men to avoid cancers like liver and kidney. Reduce the risk of skin cancer by limiting exposure to ultraviolet rays. When outside, wear sunscreen and cover any exposed skin with clothing, hats and sunglasses.
Getting regular and structured physical activity is associated with physical and mental wellbeing and is known to be associated with lower cancer risks of several types of cancers.
To find a physician or learn how to incorporate more physical activity into your lifestyle, visit www.pbrmc.com/primary-care-service or call (573) 712-2546.
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