Exercising May Lower Chances of Developing Breast Cancer
Regular exercise could potentially lower the risk of developing breast cancer, particularly for postmenopausal women, according to research. The benefits of maintaining an active lifestyle may extend beyond a slimmer waistline and enhanced fitness.
Cleveland Clinic, a renowned non-profit academic medical center, emphasizes the protective effects of physical activity against breast cancer. Studies consistently demonstrate a reduced risk in women who consistently work out, with an average of 25% less chance for developing the disease.
The risk reduction is particularly significant for those who have already reached menopause. Carrying excess weight during this stage of life brings a higher risk of breast cancer, with one study suggesting a 18% increase for women who gain 20 pounds during menopause. Lowering body fat, especially in the midsection, can help mitigate this heightened risk. For instance, losing four to 20 pounds might decrease the risk by 10% to 15%, while a 20-pound weight reduction could reduce the risk by approximately 25%.
Participating in physical activities, such as walking, running, swimming, cycling, or gardening, can help women manage their weight and potentially lower their breast cancer risk. Health experts suggest aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week, usually translated to a half-hour activity five days a week. Increasing the exercise time to 300 minutes a week, which equates to five one-hour activity periods, may result in larger decreases in body fat and a subsequent reduction in breast cancer risk. However, becoming a gym rat is not essential — any increase in physical activity can bring positive results.
For individuals new to fitness, it is essential to be patient and take it one step at a time. Start by incorporating reasonable amounts of exercise into your weekly routine gradually. Consult your healthcare provider before starting a new exercise regimen.
Exercising regularly not only reduces the risk of breast cancer but can also aid recovery after a diagnosis. A review of studies shows that physical activity before and after breast cancer diagnosis can minimize recurrence and fatal outcomes. The connection lies largely in weight management, as maintaining a leaner body offers numerous health benefits that can lower the risk of heart disease, diabetes, and other cancers.
Experts firmly believe that there are modifiable risk factors for breast cancer, with physical activity and weight management high on the list. As Dr. Halle Moore and Dr. Tiffany Onger, both oncologists, emphasized in their analysis, muscles matter in the fight against breast cancer.
The protective effects of physical activity against breast cancer are emphasized by Cleveland Clinic, with studies indicating a reduced risk of 25% for women who consistently work out. This risk reduction is particularly significant for postmenopausal women, as carrying excess weight during menopause may increase the risk by 18%. Engaging in health-and-wellness activities such as fitness-and-exercise can help manage weight, lower body fat, and potentially decrease the risk of developing breast cancer. These activities could include walking, running, swimming, cycling, or gardening, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. Increasing exercise time to 300 minutes a week might result in even larger decreases in body fat. Moreover, regular exercise is not only preventative but can also aid recovery after a breast cancer diagnosis by minimizing recurrence and fatal outcomes.
