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[Can physical activity prevent cancer?]
1Institutt for samfunnsmedisin, Universitetet i Tromsø 9037 Tromsø. Inger.Thune@ism.uit.no
Summary
Regular physical activity significantly lowers the risk of colon cancer and shows probable benefits for breast cancer. It may also reduce the risk of prostate, endometrial, and lung cancers, offering a protective effect against various cancer types.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Preventive Medicine
- Genetics
Background:
- Physical activity has played a crucial role in human evolution and bodily function.
- Its significance in cancer risk reduction is a growing area of research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To systematically review and validate the association between physical activity and cancer risk.
- To consolidate evidence on the protective effects of physical activity across various cancer sites.
Main Methods:
- A meta-analysis of 182 studies was conducted.
- Internationally accepted criteria were used to validate the strength of associations between physical activity and cancer risk.
Main Results:
- Convincing evidence shows physical activity reduces colon cancer risk.
- Probable evidence links physical activity to reduced breast cancer risk.
- Possible evidence suggests a reduced risk for prostate, endometrial, and lung cancers.
- No influence on rectal cancer risk; insufficient evidence for other sites.
- Physical activity's protective effect is independent of body mass or diet.
Conclusions:
- Physical activity should be recognized as a modifiable factor for lifelong cancer risk reduction.
- Further research is needed on biological mechanisms, improved physical activity assessment methods, and intervention studies.
- Intervention studies should incorporate biological markers to understand cancer development.