Experts agree that exercise plays an important role in preventing cancers, including colon cancer. But how early in the development of colon cancer does its anticancer effect begin? Very early, according to the British Journal of Cancer. A report confirms that people who exercise have a lower risk of precancerous colon polyps.
How early in colon cancer development does exercise's effect begin? Very early, according to the British Journal of Cancer
The report is based on a meta-analysis of the research: Data from 20 previous studies examining the relationship between physical activity and precancerous colon polyps, know as colon adenomas, was included in the analysis. The authors of the report concluded:
“Our meta-analysis, combined with studies demonstrating physical activity’s role in colon cancer prevention, suggests that physical activity has a role across the carcinogenic process,” said lead study author Dr. Kathleen Wolin of the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis, Missouri. “The anticancer effect of physical activity may be related to enhanced immune function, decreased inflammation, and lower insulin levels and insulin resistance."
Not everyone with colon polyps will develop colon cancer. Benign polyps are made up of cells that won’t become cancer, while colon adenomas have abnormal cells that can become cancer. If colon adenomas are found and removed early, the journey to cancer can be interrupted, but this type of polyp often comes back. Preventing precancerous colon polyps is a top priority for preventing colon cancer. Here are some prevention strategies:
(Br J Cancer 2011;104:882–5)