Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 31, 2026
05:59
Visualization of Intensity Levels to Reduce the Gap Between Self-Reported and Directly Measured Physical Activity
Published on: March 7, 2019
Physical activity and colorectal cancer
M L Slattery1, S Edwards, K Curtin
1Health Research Center, University of Utah, Salt Lake City 84108, USA. mslatter@hrc.utah.edu
American Journal of Epidemiology
|July 29, 2003
Summary
Regular physical activity, especially vigorous activity, is linked to a lower risk of rectal cancer. This association was observed in both men and women, with long-term vigorous activity offering the greatest protection.
Area of Science:
- Epidemiology
- Oncology
- Public Health
Background:
- Physical activity's association with colon cancer is well-established, but its link to rectal cancer risk remains inconsistent.
- Previous research has not consistently demonstrated a protective effect of physical activity against rectal cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between physical activity and the risk of developing rectal cancer.
- To utilize the same methodology employed in prior studies on colon cancer to ensure comparability.
Main Methods:
- A population-based case-control study involving 952 incident rectal and rectosigmoid junction cancer cases and 1,205 matched controls.
- Data collected between 1997 and 2002 at Kaiser Permanente in Utah and Northern California.
- Utilized a specific questionnaire to assess physical activity levels.
Main Results:
- Vigorous physical activity significantly reduced rectal cancer risk in both men (OR=0.60) and women (OR=0.59).
- Moderate physical activity also showed a reduced risk in men (OR=0.70).
- Sustained vigorous activity over 20 years provided the strongest protective effect for both sexes (men OR=0.55, women OR=0.44).
Conclusions:
- Physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of rectal cancer.
- The observed protective effect of physical activity against rectal cancer is comparable to that found for colon cancer.
- Encouraging regular physical activity may be a viable strategy for rectal cancer prevention.
Related Concept Videos
02:59Cancer Prevention
Several factors can increase the risk of cancer in an individual. About 50% of cancer cases can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, eating healthy, and following a modest cancer prevention diet. Epidemiological studies have consistently shown that populations with vegetable and fruit-rich diets have reduced the incidence of cancer. On the other hand, populations who have a diet rich in animal fat, red meat, junk food, or high calories are predisposed to cancer.
Some...
Some...
02:59Cancer Prevention
Several factors can increase the risk of cancer in an individual. About 50% of cancer cases can be prevented by adopting a healthy lifestyle, regular exercise, eating healthy, and following a modest cancer prevention diet. Epidemiological studies have consistently shown that populations with vegetable and fruit-rich diets have reduced the incidence of cancer. On the other hand, populations who have a diet rich in animal fat, red meat, junk food, or high calories are predisposed to cancer.
Some...
Some...
01:27Exercise and Muscle Performance
Exercise induces a range of adaptations in muscle tissue, depending on the type and duration of activity. Such physical training can be broadly categorized into two types: endurance exercises and resistance exercises.
Endurance exercises
Endurance exercises involve running, swimming, or cycling, which require repetitive movements with low force output. When a person engages in endurance exercise, a few noticeable changes occur in their skeletal muscles. For instance, the number of capillaries...
Endurance exercises
Endurance exercises involve running, swimming, or cycling, which require repetitive movements with low force output. When a person engages in endurance exercise, a few noticeable changes occur in their skeletal muscles. For instance, the number of capillaries...
01:17Exercise and Cardiac Output
Regular physical activity is essential for maintaining cardiovascular health, with aerobic exercises being particularly effective. According to the American Heart Association, 150 minutes of moderate to intense aerobic exercise per week is recommended for a healthy heart. Aerobic activities may include brisk walking, running, bicycling, cross-country skiing, and swimming, ideally performed three to five times per week.
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be met...
Sustained exercise increases the muscles' oxygen demand, which can be met...
01:20Exercise and Cardiovascular Response
Exercise significantly impacts cardiovascular response, which is crucial for understanding patient health and designing effective treatment plans.
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
Light to moderate physical activity initiates a series of interconnected responses in the body. The heart rate modestly increases in anticipation of the workout, followed by widespread vasodilation as oxygen consumption by skeletal muscles increases. This results in decreased peripheral resistance, increased capillary blood flow, and accelerated...
01:20Lifestyle Factors and Health
Lifestyle factors play a critical role in maintaining overall health and preventing chronic diseases. Key elements, such as regular physical activity, a nutritious diet, and abstinence from smoking, can significantly enhance physical, mental, and emotional well-being while reducing the risk of several life-threatening conditions.
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity, whether through structured exercise or casual activities like walking, biking, or dancing, is a cornerstone of a...
Benefits of Physical Activity
Physical activity, whether through structured exercise or casual activities like walking, biking, or dancing, is a cornerstone of a...