New Study Finds Being Fit Earlier in Life Reduces Risk of Developing Multiple Cancers
A new study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine has found that being fit earlier in life is associated with a reduced risk of developing nine different types of cancer later in life. The study, which drew from data from over 1 million male Swedish conscripts, followed participants for an average of 33 years.
The results of the study showed that good cardiorespiratory fitness, which is an individual’s ability to engage in sustained aerobic exercises such as running, cycling, and swimming, was associated with a 42% reduced risk of lung cancer, a 40% reduced risk of liver cancer, and a 39% reduced risk of esophageal cancer. It was also associated with a lower risk of head and neck, stomach, pancreatic, bowel, and kidney cancer.
However, higher cardiorespiratory fitness appeared to be associated with a 7% heightened risk of prostate cancer and a 31% heightened risk of skin cancer. The researchers suggest that more frequent prostate cancer screening and sunlight exposure might account for these findings.
Dr. Aron Onerup, the lead researcher at the University of Gothenburg in Sweden, expressed surprise at the broad associations between cardiorespiratory fitness and cancers in multiple organ systems. He also noted that subsequent studies have indicated that men with higher fitness levels are more likely to be diagnosed with non-fatal prostate cancers.
Dr. Claire Knight, senior health information manager at Cancer Research UK, pointed out that the study did not fully take into account the effect of diet, alcohol, and smoking, which are known to affect cancer risk.
Despite these limitations, the results of the study are compelling and strengthen the case for promoting interventions aimed at increasing cardiorespiratory fitness in youth. Dr. Mark Hamer, professor of sport and exercise medicine at University College London, emphasized the importance of the long follow-up period in ruling out issues of reverse causation.
The study also found that muscle strength was less associated with cancer risk compared to cardiorespiratory fitness. This suggests that aerobic activities such as running, biking, sports, and swimming may be more likely to be associated with a reduced risk of cancer compared to resistance training.
In addition to reducing cancer risk, exercise has compound benefits for emotional health and preventing cardiovascular disease. Dr. Onerup emphasized that any physical activity is better than none and that more physical activity leads to better health outcomes. It is never too late to start exercising and reap the health protective benefits.
Dr. Knight recommended aiming for 150 minutes of exercise per week but noted that it is fine to build up activity over time. Any activity that gets the heart beating faster and causes slight breathlessness counts as a way to be active, whether it’s going for a brisk walk, cycling with a friend, or even doing household chores.
While this study provides valuable insights into the relationship between fitness and cancer risk, it is important to consider other lifestyle factors and consult with healthcare professionals for a comprehensive approach to cancer prevention.
How can regular exercise and physical fitness help reduce the risk of developing colorectal and bladder cancer
Tness levels earlier in life have a decreased risk of developing colorectal and bladder cancer.
The study’s findings further highlight the importance of maintaining physical fitness throughout the lifespan. Engaging in regular aerobic exercises can have long-lasting health benefits, including reducing the risk of various types of cancer.
The research also raises questions about the potential link between cardiorespiratory fitness and prostate and skin cancer. While higher fitness levels were associated with a heightened risk of these cancers, more research is needed to understand the underlying mechanisms. It is possible that increased screening for prostate cancer and greater sunlight exposure contribute to the findings.
Although the study focused on male participants, the results likely apply to women as well. Regular exercise and physical fitness have been shown to have numerous health benefits for both genders.
Dr. Onerup emphasized the far-reaching impact of cardiorespiratory fitness on multiple organ systems. The study’s findings support the idea that maintaining fitness earlier in life can have long-term effects on overall health and reduce the risk of developing various types of cancer.
This research emphasizes the importance of incorporating regular exercise into our lifestyles to improve overall fitness and reduce cancer risk. Whether it’s running, cycling, swimming, or engaging in other forms of aerobic exercise, staying active is crucial for maintaining good health and preventing diseases.
