Exercise can prevent breast cancer in some women

New research in Australia has found that breast cancer can be prevented for some women who take part in physical activity.

The report amalgamated results from over 60 studies that looked at the link between breast cancer and exercise. The results were resoundingly positive, with the most physically active women reducing their risk of breast cancer by an impressive 25%.

Dr. Christine M. Friedenreich of the Alberta Cancer Board and Dr. A.E. Cust of the University of Melbourne found that vigorous and recreational activity was the best way to cut the risk factor. However, moderate activity, work-related activity and even doing the housework gave beneficial results.

Dr. Friedenreich said: “There’s now convincing evidence that physical activity is a means of reducing the risk of breast cancer and, because this is a modifiable lifestyle risk factor, this is something that people actually have control over.”

In conjunction with exercise, women with lower BMIs were also found to have a reduced risk of breast cancer. Your body mass index is worked out by correlating your height with your weight, and plotting the result on an under-weight to obese line. Where obese women undertook the vigorous exercise, no benefits were found.

So, there you have it. Yet more resounding evidence that a sensible diet combined with plenty of exercise will keep you fighting fit.

Source: CTV.ca