Regular Exercise May Lower Risk of Prostate Cancer, According to New Study
In the realm of cancer research, the question of whether regular exercise can prevent certain types of cancer has been a topic of great interest. While the answer is not straightforward, a recent study published in The British Journal of Sports Medicine sheds light on how physical activity can affect the risk of prostate cancer, which is the second most common and second most fatal cancer among men in the United States.
The study, one of the largest of its kind, collected data from 57,652 Swedish men who had undergone at least two fitness tests between 1982 and 2019. The researchers aimed to determine if those who were more physically active had a lower likelihood of developing prostate cancer. Out of the participants, around 1% were later diagnosed with the disease. The findings revealed that those who had shown improvements in fitness over the years were 35% less likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer.
These results align with the latest research on the connection between fitness and cancer diagnosis. A 2021 study suggests that if all adults in the United States were to meet the recommended physical activity guidelines, there could be a 3% decrease in cancer diagnoses each year, amounting to approximately 46,000 fewer cases. While there has been extensive research on the relationship between exercise and conditions like breast cancer, there has been less focus on prostate cancer.
Prostate cancer risk increases for all men after the age of 50, and there is evidence to suggest a genetic predisposition. According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 1 in 8 men will receive a prostate cancer diagnosis during their lifetime. Previous studies exploring the link between physical activity and prostate cancer have yielded contradictory results. Some studies have shown an increased risk for physically active individuals, while others have found a decreased risk.
Dr. Kate Bolam, a co-author of the study, explains that many of these conflicting studies had small sample sizes or were biased towards healthier individuals. She points out that men who are generally more health-conscious are more likely to undergo prostate cancer screening tests, leading to more diagnoses. However, it is important to note that not all diagnosed cases of prostate cancer are life-threatening. In some instances, cancer cells can exist in the prostate without posing a significant risk to one’s health. This means that many men who are not tested or do not experience symptoms may never be aware that they have prostate cancer.
To overcome the limitations of previous studies, the Swedish research team utilized a national database with hundreds of thousands of in-lab results, including fitness tests that objectively measured cardiovascular and pulmonary function. This objective approach provided experts with more accurate measurements of physical activity levels. The results clearly demonstrated a link between physical activity and a reduced risk of prostate cancer. Furthermore, the study revealed that greater improvements in fitness were associated with a greater reduction in risk.
These findings contribute to the growing understanding of the importance of exercise in cancer prevention. A 2019 review by the American College of Sports Medicine found that regular physical activity significantly lowers the risk of various cancers, including bladder, breast, colon, endometrial, esophageal adenocarcinoma, kidney, and stomach cancers. The same analysis also indicated that maintaining a regular exercise routine improves treatment outcomes and extends the life expectancies of individuals already living with cancer.
While the exact mechanisms behind this protective effect are not yet fully understood, experts speculate that exercise enhances the immune system’s ability to target and eliminate cancer cells. Neil M. Iyengar, a medical oncologist and physician scientist at Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center in New York City, explains that exercise prompts the release of immune cells in the body’s circulation and improves the population of immune cells in tissues that combat cancer cells. He emphasizes that individuals who engage in regular exercise exhibit a higher number of immune cells capable of killing cancer cells, whereas sedentary individuals, particularly those who are obese, show the opposite effect.
Although the ideal dose and type of exercise for maximum effectiveness are still unknown, both the American Cancer Society and the American Society of Clinical Oncology recommend 150 minutes of aerobic exercise per week, equivalent to 20 minutes per day. This can include activities such as light walking, jogging, or weight-bearing exercises. Both Dr. Iyengar and Dr. Bolam suggest starting with an enjoyable activity and gradually increasing intensity. Consistency is key, and finding an activity that doesn’t feel like a chore is crucial.
Dr. Bolam emphasizes that everyone has the opportunity to take a cost-efficient measure to reduce their risk of prostate cancer through regular exercise. It is a proactive step that individuals can control and incorporate into their daily lives. By prioritizing physical activity, individuals can potentially lower their risk of developing prostate cancer and improve their overall health and well-being.
In conclusion, the recent study published in The British Journal of Sports Medicine highlights the positive impact of regular exercise on reducing the risk of prostate cancer. The findings
