Colorectal cancer is the third most common type of cancer, according to ScienceDaily. Colon cancer is a type of cancer that affects the lower part of the digestive system, while rectal cancer affects the last few inches of the colon. As a way to prevent this deadly disease, you can make lifestyle changes, including adding more exercise to your daily routine.
Features
The National Cancer Institute recommends daily exercise to reduce your colon cancer risk. The organization suggests that 30 to 60 minutes of vigorous aerobic exercise daily is required if you want to protect yourself against colon cancer. It is has yet to be determined whether rectal cancer and polyp recurrence risk is affected by exercise. You can perform any type of exercise to prevent colon cancer. ScienceDaily suggests options such as jogging, swimming, cycling or walking. You can increase the intensity or time you spend exercising to greater reduce your risk.
Expert Insight
If you increase your level of physical activity, either in intensity or time, you can reduce your colon cancer risk by 30 to 40 percent compared to individuals who do not exercise, reports the National Cancer Institute. It was found that exercise reduced colon cancer risk regardless of the person's weight and those who were the most active reduced their risk the most.
Theories/Speculation
The National Cancer Institute suggests several theories as to the reason that exercise helps prevent colon cancer. It is speculated that exercise helps reduce exposure of the colon to known carcinogens and has anti-inflammatory effects on the body. Additionally, exercise affects hormone metabolism, energy balance and insulin levels. These factors are related to colon cancer risk.
Considerations
According to a 2007 study done at the University of Connecticut Health Center by the Department of Family Medicine and published in "Current Sports Medicine Reports," the benefits of exercise continue even after the development of colon cancer. Regular exercise was found to improve the quality of life and reduce the mortality rate in colon cancer patients.
Diet
Along with exercise, you should make other lifestyle changes, like improving your diet to reduce colon cancer risk. MayoClinic.com recommends a diet full of fresh fruit, vegetables and whole grains. These foods contain nutrients and antioxidants, which may prevent cancer. Additionally, avoid smoking and only drink alcohol in moderation.
