3135: This Exercise Can Reduce Cancer up to 72% (Compelling Research)

September 5, 2024

3135: This Exercise Can Reduce Cancer up to 72% (Compelling Research)

September 5, 2024

TT: This Exercise Can Reduce Cancer up to 72% (Compelling Research)

Exercise has countless benefits for your health…

But did you know that it also plays a significant role in fighting off cancer?

Today, I want to share several research studies that reveal how a specific type of exercise may significantly reduce cancer risk.

I’ll break down what this exercise is and how much you should be doing each day.

So join me on today’s Cabral Concept 3135, where I explore the research behind the exercise that may reduce cancer risk by up to 72%. Enjoy the show, and I’d love to hear your thoughts!

Show Highlights & Big Takeaways

1. How Can Exercise Kill Cancer

Exercise may help kill cancer cells by activating the immune system, generating shear stress that destroys tumor cells, and altering gene expression to reduce cancer cell viability. It also reduces cancer risk and progression by lowering inflammation, increasing insulin sensitivity, and improving hormone metabolism, with studies showing that regular high-intensity exercise significantly decreases the risk of metastatic cancer and mortality.

2. What Does the Research Show

Research shows that engaging in at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise daily significantly reduces the risk of cancer and cancer-related mortality, with studies reporting up to a 72% reduction in cancer risk for those exercising at more than 5.2 METs. Consistent physical activity over time, as demonstrated in multiple large-scale studies, is linked to lower risks of various cancers, including colon, breast, and lung cancer..

3. What are METs

METs, or Metabolic Equivalent of Tasks, measure the intensity of physical activities, with 1 MET equaling the energy used while sitting quietly. A 5.2 MET activity, like brisk walking or light cycling, requires 5.2 times the energy expenditure of resting.

Links From This Episode

Why exercise has a crucial role in cancer prevention, risk reduction and improved outcomes (research)

Harvard Alumni Study (1995): This study found that men who engaged in vigorous physical activity had a 68% lower risk of colon cancer compared to those who were less active. The study highlighted the importance of sustained physical activity over time.
Women’s Health Study (2007): This study observed that women who engaged in high levels of physical activity had a 30% to 40% lower risk of breast cancer compared to those who were less active. The reduction in risk was more pronounced in women who maintained a consistent exercise regimen.
European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition (EPIC) Study (2008): This large-scale study found that higher levels of physical activity were associated with a 50% lower risk of colon cancer. The study included participants from multiple countries across Europe and considered various forms of physical activity.
MET-Ex Study (2020): A more recent study examined the relationship between MET-hours per week and cancer risk reduction. It found that individuals who engaged in 7.5 to 15 MET-hours per week of vigorous exercise (equivalent to 150-300 minutes of moderate activity) had a 30% to 60% lower risk of several types of cancer, including breast, colon, and endometrial cancer.
American Cancer Society Cancer Prevention Study II (2014): This study followed over 140,000 men and women and found that those who engaged in the highest levels of physical activity had a 25% to 50% lower risk of various cancers, including lung, breast, and colon cancer.