Optimal Physical Activity for Preventing Digestive System Cancers
Consistent moderate physical activity significantly reduces the risk of digestive system cancers, highlighting the importance of long-term exercise for prevention.
Digestive system cancers (DSCs), including malignancies of the esophagus, stomach, colon, rectum, pancreas, liver and other digestive organs account for nearly one-third of global cancer incidence and 40% of cancer-related deaths.
Despite their heavy burden, prevention strategies remain limited. While obesity, smoking, alcohol and diet are well-established risk factors, physical activity has emerged as a promising protective factor.
New research from JAMA Oncology relied on decades of data from major U.S. cohorts, suggested that when it comes to preventing DSCs, maintaining consistent, moderate physical activity is more effective than intermittent periods of high-intensity effort.
Yiwen Zhang, Ph.D., from the Department of Nutrition, Harvard T.H.
Author's summary: Regular exercise reduces cancer risk.