Healthy living
Body matters
Active women less likely to get breast cancer
Women who are physically active are 25 per cent less likely to get breast cancer, according to a review published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine
Researchers from the Alberta Cancer Board in Canada reviewed over 60 studies that looked at the impact of physical activity on breast cancer risk. They were interested to find out whether the risk was affected by the type and intensity of the activity and the time in a women’s life it was undertaken.
The team found that lean women who play sport or take part in other physical activities in their spare time have the lowest risk of breast cancer - especially if they have been through the menopause.
All types of activity reduced a women’s risk but recreational activities like fitness classes or tennis were more beneficial than exercise gained as part of a job or looking after the house. Moderate exercise was found to be just as good as more vigorous workouts.
The team found that women were more protected if they exercised throughout their lives and exercise undertaken after the menopause reduced the risk more than exercise before the change.
Women who became mothers were less likely to develop the disease while a family history of breast cancer increased the risk.
The authors of the study say that the way physical activity protects women against breast cancer is likely to be complex involving a number of different factors including effects on the sex hormones, blood sugar levels and the immune system.
‘It is widely accepted that regular exercise may reduce the risk of developing breast cancer, particularly for post menopausal women,’ said Jackie Harris, Breast Health Nurse Specialist at Breast Cancer Care.
‘This study adds to this evidence, however more research is needed to determine the impact of different levels of exercise in reducing breast cancer risk.
‘It is important to stress that breast cancer risk cannot be attributed to one lifestyle factor alone. Whilst regular exercise of any sort is beneficial in maintaining good health, we would advise that all women try to eat a balanced diet, keep within a healthy weight range and remain breast aware throughout life.’
Dr Kat Arney, senior science information officer at Cancer Research UK also welcomed the study.
‘We know that keeping a healthy bodyweight and regular physical activity can help to reduce the risk of certain cancers,’ said Arney. ‘This research is an overview of many studies in this area, and supports the evidence that being active, especially after the menopause, can help to cut the risk of breast cancer.’
* Useful website: Cancer Research UK
Information on this site is for interest only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. You should consult your own doctor about any specific health concerns.
