Researchers from the “Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences” published, on January 30, a study in the “British Journal of Sports Medicine” proving that men who increased their physical activity by 3% over a year had 35% less chance of develop prostate cancer. This represented an important milestone in proving the relationship between physical exercise and the prevention of this type of cancer.
Cardiorespiration as a key to cancer prevention
The research studied the profile of 57,652 men, taking into account their body mass index (BMI), physical exercise routine, height, among other factors. During the research follow-up period, which lasted an average of seven years, it was found that 592 men developed prostate cancer and 46 died as a result of the disease. It was observed that individuals who increased their physical activity by 3% per year were 35% less likely to develop the disease, although they were not less likely to die from it if they developed it.
Understand the role of physical exercise
In addition to physical measurements, the research also took into account cardiorespiratory physical fitness tests and the amount of oxygen that the individual’s body consumes during intense physical activities. The increase in cardiorespiratory physical fitness, measured based on oxygen consumption, was shown, for the first time, to be a factor in significantly reducing the risk of developing prostate cancer. Previous studies have even pointed out an opposite correlation, showing a slightly higher risk for individuals with higher levels of cardiovascular fitness.
Reaction from the scientific community and recommendations
The release of the study generated positive reactions in the scientific and health community. Simon Grieveson, assistant director of research at Prostate Cancer UK, said the study adds data to previous research that has already linked physical exercise to reducing the chances of developing prostate cancer.
For Matt Lambert, health information and promotion manager at the World Cancer Research Fund, the study illustrates the importance of cardiorespiratory physical fitness for the prevention of several diseases, including prostate cancer. Both highlighted the relevance of regular physical activity in promoting health and well-being, although more studies need to be developed to measure this correlation and understand whether exercising can also reduce the risk of death as a result of prostate cancer.