Lung cancer is one of the more common forms of cancer experienced by Americans. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates that in 2007 alone 203,536 men and women in the United States were diagnosed with lung cancer. Unfortunately, lung cancer deaths are also common with 203,536 deaths reported the same year, more than any other type of cancer. Although the most common advice for helping prevent lung cancer is to quit smoking, increasing your exercise levels can also help prevent lung cancer.
Statistics
Over 21 studies have been launched regarding the effects of physical activity and exercise on your risks for developing lung cancer. From these studies the National Cancer Society has determined that taking part in regular physical activity can reduce your risks of developing lung cancer by 20 percent.
Lung Health
Exercise in one of the most important factors in keeping your lungs healthy. When you exercise, the need for energy increases throughout the body. To meet these energy needs, substantial amounts of oxygen are required for the reactions that create energy. In order for enough oxygen to enter the bloodstream your breathing rate must increase to pull oxygen from the surrounding air. This increase in breathing rate, as well as the deeper breathing strengthens the lungs over time, increasing their overall health. Healthier lungs provide you with a greater defense against lung cancer.
Immune System
Exercise also benefits your immune system, which is an integral part of fighting off the development of lung cancer. Regular exercise creates these benefits by strengthening your overall immune response to cancer cell development, including strengthening your T-cell response and your general antibody response, suggests the Cleveland Clinic.
Recommendations
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend that all adults get at least 150 minutes of moderately intense exercise each week. Moderately intense exercise includes activities such as hiking, jogging, swimming, biking and even brisk walking. The American College of Sports Medicine and American Heart Association also suggest at least 30 minutes a day, five days a week of exercise.
References
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention Lung Cancer Statistics
- National Cancer Institute: Physical Activity and Cancer
- PubMed.gov: A case-control study of lifestyle and lung cancer associations by histological types.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: Activity Guidelines
- Cleveland Clinic: Diet, Exercise, Stress and the Immune System
- American College of Sports Medicine: Guidelines for healthy adults under age 65
