Lifestyle factors are being increasingly recognized for their role in cancer causation and survival. Physical activity reduces the risk of many cancers, including breast, colon, esophageal, and kidney cancer. Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of cancer by helping to control weight, reduce inflammation, and improve immune system function. Additionally, physical activity can help reduce the risk of recurrence and death from certain types of cancer. According to the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), obesity and an inactive lifestyle are responsible for 25% of all cancer cases worldwide.
Exercise can help control weight and lower sex hormones or insulin levels, reducing cancer risk. It can also improve the quality of life during cancer treatment. Physical activity can also assist you in dealing with treatment side effects and may lower your risk of developing new cancers. Reducing the transit time of food to pass through the digestive system can lead to reduced gastrointestinal tract exposure to potential carcinogens.
Benefits of physical exercise
1. Improved physical health: Regular physical exercise helps to reduce the risk of a range of health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and certain types of cancer. It can also help to improve mental health and reduce stress.
2. Improved mental health: Exercise can improve mood, reduce feelings of depression and anxiety, and help to improve self-esteem.
3. Better sleep: Physical activity can improve sleep quality and help to fight insomnia.
4. Increased energy levels: Exercise can help to improve energy levels and reduce fatigue.
5. Improved cognitive function: Studies have shown that physical exercise can help to improve memory, concentration, and other cognitive functions.
6. Increased strength and flexibility: Exercise can help to build muscle strength and improve flexibility.
7. Improved social life: Exercise can help to improve social life by providing an opportunity to meet new people, join groups, and stay active.
Incorporating exercise safely
1. Start slowly and build up gradually: Aim for 10-minute increments of physical activity at a time.
2. Try low-impact activities: Walking, yoga, swimming, and cycling are gentle on the body and can be done at any level of intensity.
3. Focus on form: Pay attention to how your body moves and maintain proper form to avoid injury.
4. Take breaks: Allow yourself to rest in between bouts of physical activity and listen to your body for signs of fatigue.
5. Incorporate physical activity into your daily routine: Look for ways to add more movement to your day, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator or parking further away from your destination.
6. Follow your doctor’s advice: Speak to your doctor about what type and amount of physical activity is best for you.
References
Vainio H, Kaaks R, Bianchini F. Weight control and physical activity in cancer prevention: international evaluation of the evidence. Eur J Cancer Prev. 2002;11(Suppl 2): S94–100.
https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/physical-activity
Winzer BM, Whiteman DC, Reeves MM, Paratz JD. Physical activity and cancer prevention: a systematic review of clinical trials. Cancer Causes and Control 2011; 22(6):811-826.
Recent Comments