Importance of Physical Exercise in Fighting Cancer
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Exercise is widely recognized for its numerous health benefits, including improved cardiovascular fitness, weight management, and mental health. Recently, a growing body of scientific evidence has highlighted the importance of exercise as a vital tool in the prevention and treatment of cancer. This article explores how physical activity can contribute to the prevention and treatment of cancer, presenting references that support these facts.
Cancer Prevention
Risk Reduction
Several epidemiological studies have shown that regular physical activity is associated with a reduced risk of several types of cancer. The American Cancer Society recommends at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous activity per week for adults. Research suggests that these levels of activity can significantly reduce the risk of common cancers, such as breast, colon, and lung.
For example, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) analyzed data from more than 1.4 million people and found an inverse association between physical activity and 13 different types of cancer, including esophageal, liver, lung, kidney, stomach and endometrial cancer.
Role of Exercise During Treatment
Improving Quality of Life
For patients who have already been diagnosed with cancer, exercise can be a crucial tool in improving quality of life during treatment. Regular physical activity can help alleviate common side effects of cancer treatments, such as fatigue, pain, and deterioration in physical function.
A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology demonstrated that breast cancer patients who participated in supervised exercise programs experienced significant improvements in quality of life and energy levels, as well as a reduction in depressive symptoms.
Treatment Benefits
In addition to improving quality of life, there is evidence that exercise can positively influence treatment outcomes. Research indicates that physically active patients have higher survival rates compared to sedentary patients. For example, a study conducted by the National Cancer Institute showed that women with breast cancer who were physically active had a 40% higher survival rate than women who were inactive.
Mechanisms of Action
Hormonal Regulation
One of the mechanisms by which exercise can help prevent cancer is hormone regulation. Regular physical activity helps reduce levels of hormones such as estrogen and insulin, which are associated with the growth of certain types of cancer.
Immune System
Exercise also strengthens the immune system by increasing the circulation of immune cells that help identify and destroy cancer cells. This immunomodulatory effect of exercise is one of the main reasons why physical activity is recommended for both the prevention and treatment of cancer.
Reduction of Inflammation
Chronic inflammation is a risk factor for the development of cancer. Regular exercise has an anti-inflammatory effect, helping to reduce inflammatory markers in the body and, consequently, the risk of cancer.
Conclusion
Physical activity plays a key role in preventing and combating cancer. Its benefits go beyond simply improving fitness, including reducing the risk of developing several types of cancer, improving quality of life during treatment, and potentially increasing survival rates. Incorporating regular exercise into a healthy lifestyle is a powerful strategy for tackling this challenging disease.
For more information on how to start an exercise program that is right for your needs, visit www.workoutathome.com .
References
- Moore, S.C., et al. (2016). Association of Leisure-Time Physical Activity With Risk of 26 Types of Cancer in 1.44 Million Adults. JAMA Internal Medicine , 176(6), 816-825. Link
- Schmitz, KH, et al. (2010). Physical Activity and Breast Cancer Survivorship: Clinical Recommendations from the American College of Sports Medicine. Journal of Clinical Oncology , 28(26), 3984-3991. Link
- Holmes, MD, et al. (2005). Physical activity and survival after breast cancer diagnosis. JAMA , 293(20), 2479-2486. Link
This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the benefits of exercise in fighting cancer, backed by reputable scientific research. For more personalized guidance, do not hesitate to consult a healthcare professional or certified trainer.
