Exercise Lowers Your Risk of Colon Cancer

The team at Washington University examined data from the American Cancer Society Prevention Study to determine whether regular physical activity affected either the incidence of colon cancer diagnosis or the risk of death from the disease. The study found that those who consistently exercised over the course of 10 years had the lowest incident of colon cancer.  According to the lead author of the study, Kathleen Y. Wolin, ScD, they found that, "People who were consistently active over the course of their adulthood had a lower risk of death from colon cancer than those who were sedentary."

One of the things she also mentioned was how even doing a little can have a significant impact. You get enormous 'bang for the buck,'" she says. "You go for a 30-minute walk every day, and you're going to reduce your risk of a number of diseases. And in addition, our research has also shown that you feel better, physically and mentally, so you're able to function better." The researchers even found that those who started exercising after their diagnosis had a greater likelihood of surviving the illness. 

One thing the study makes clear is that adding exercise to your life is helpful, no matter your current fitness level. So get out, and get moving!

Source: Washington University School of Medicine