Does exercising more reduce the risk of cancer?

There is ample evidence suggesting that increased exercise reduces the risk of cancer, but why are these two factors linked?

Physical activity can be a crucial factor in optimizing the chances of preventing cancer from developing - Photo: FREEPIK

According to Science Alert , under the leadership of a research team from Yale University (USA), scientists analyzed metabolic responses in mice with breast cancer or melanoma tumors, divided into groups based on their diet and activity levels.

After four weeks, the mice on a high-fat diet and regular exercise had significantly smaller tumors compared to the mice on the same diet but without exercise.

"Obese mice that voluntarily ran on a treadmill for four weeks after being injected with cancer cells showed a nearly 60% reduction in tumor size," reported physician and scientist Brooks Leitner from Yale University and his colleagues in the published study.

The team also identified 417 metabolic-related genes that were expressed differently in active mice compared to lean, less active mice.

However, they also noted that "this metabolic relationship and the ability of exercise to slow tumor growth may be dependent on the duration of exercise."

Cancer in all its forms is a complex disease, with many mechanisms involved in tumor development and formation. Patients cannot prevent cancer simply by going to the gym. However, physical activity can be a crucial factor in optimizing the chances of preventing the disease from developing.

Researchers also found that obese mice that exercised for two weeks before receiving tumor implants had smaller tumors compared to less active mice. However, they still need to determine whether similar processes occur in humans.

To move toward that goal, researchers hope to continue their studies on human cancerous tumors, with a clearer structure regarding the type and duration of exercise. This will help to better understand how maintaining physical activity helps protect against cancer.

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Source: https://tuoitre.vn/tap-the-duc-nhieu-hon-giup-giam-nguy-co-ung-thu-20251210171743644.htm