The third most common cancer in the United States, colon cancer, strikes about 100,000 people annually. The benefits of exercise on overall health have been well-demonstrated and research links regular physical activity with reduced risk of colon cancer. While no guarantees exist when it comes to partaking in activities linked to reduced occurrences of this deadly disease, living a healthy lifestyle can increase the odds in your favor.
Research
According to the National Cancer Institute, the links between exercise and reduced risk of colon cancer have been one of the most extensively studied of all types of cancer. A study conducted by researchers at both the Washington University School of Medicine and Harvard University analyzed the results of 52 studies dating back from 1984 looking at the links between physical activity and colon cancer risk. Published in the February 2009 issue of the "British Journal of Cancer", the study found that people who exercised the most were 24 percent less likely to suffer from colon cancer. Researchers note this benefit applied to both sexes partaking in a wide variety of physical activity. The NCI notes research that has shown a reduced risk of up to 40 percent.
Action
Regular physical activity produces a variety of positive changes in the body. When it comes to colon cancer, the exact mechanisms have not been determined but the NCI notes it probably works in multiple ways against this particular type of cancer. Possible actions include reducing inflammation, strengthening immunity, regulating hormone and insulin production and reducing the amount of time cancer-causing substances remain in contact with the colon.
Recommended Exercise Time
While any activity beats out none at all, you must engage in a certain amount to effect any significant change. In the aforementioned analysis of studies, researchers note one particular study found women who walked briskly five to six hours a week had the lowest risk compared to less active people. The NCI notes you probably need 30 to 60 minutes of at least moderately-intense activity daily to reduce the risk, based on its review of research.
Types of Exercise
The Washington University and Harvard study found a reduced risk of colon cancer in people who partook in all kinds of activities, whether they were recreational or job-related. Being physically active does not necessarily require joining a gym, buying fitness equipment or adopting any formal exercise program. While these things might help keep you on track, the most important thing is to increase overall physical activity.
