Exercise can lower cancer risk

PETALING JAYA: Exercise can help extend a cancer sufferer’s life expectancy, according to National Cancer Society Malaysia director Dr Murallitharan M.

He noted that how exercise helps to slow down cancer growth is not fully understood yet.

“In fact, research is still being conducted to determine the chemical changes brought about by exercise that suppress the growth of cancer cells.

“Nonetheless, there are studies that strongly suggest exercising,” he told theSun recently.

He cited a study in the British Journal of Sports Medicine on the association between physical activity and cancer, which stated that “... physical activity is associated with lower risks among several cancers, but only colon and breast cancer association were supported by ‘highly suggestive evidence’”.

Another study, “Physical Activity and Cancer” highlighted the health benefits of regular physical activity, to the extent of reducing the chances of developing diabetes, osteoporosis, obesity, depression, fatigue and more.

Murallitharan said there is evidence to suggest that physical activity can help to reduce the risk of colon, breast, endometrial and ovarian cancers.

“It may also cut down the risk of prostate and lung cancers,” he added.

Although medical literature does not say what form of exercise helps, cancer survivors insist that a consistent exercise regime that they enjoy doing helps them to “feel a difference” in the body.

Sri Kota Specialist Medical Centre’s Dr Vinodhini Bhaskaran cited the World Health Organisation, which states about 30% to 50% of all cancers are preventable.

“The key to reducing risks is by creating awareness on prevention strategies and health education, and this includes avoiding smoking, eating a well-balanced diet, exercising and conducting regular health screening,” Vinodhini said.

According to the Malaysia National Cancer Registry Report 2012-2016, the annual cancer incidence has increased over the last 10 years (2007-2016) in both men and women, with more women affected than men.

The risk factors include ageing, hormones, chronic inflammation and obesity, Vinodhini said.

Today is World Cancer Day, the international awareness day to raise world attention and inspire action towards a cancerfree future.