Physical Activity and Cancer Risk Reduction
Short Daily Bursts Linked to Significant Decrease in Cancer Incidence
I would love for every oncologist to work in prevention rather than attempting to cure
A recent prospective cohort study published in JAMA Oncology investigates the impact of Vigorous Intermittent Lifestyle Physical Activity (VILPA) on cancer incidence among non-exercising adults. VILPA refers to brief, sporadic bouts of vigorous physical activity, such as brisk walking or stair climbing, performed during daily routines. The study aimed to determine the minimal effective dose of VILPA required to reduce cancer risk.
The study involved 22,398 non-exercising adults from the UK Biobank, with a mean age of 62 years, followed for an average of 6.7 years. Participants wore accelerometers on their dominant wrists to measure daily VILPA. Results showed that a minimum of 3.4 to 3.6 minutes of VILPA per day was associated with a 17% to 18% reduction in overall cancer risk. Additionally, a median daily VILPA of 4.5 minutes was linked to a 31% to 32% reduction in cancer types related to physical inactivity.
The findings suggest that even small amounts of VILPA can significantly lower cancer risk, making it a feasible intervention for those unable or unmotivated to engage in structured exercise. The study highlights the potential of incorporating short bursts of vigorous activity into daily routines as a practical strategy for cancer prevention.
The study involved 22,398 non-exercising adults from the UK Biobank, with a mean age of 62 years, followed for an average of 6.7 years. Participants wore accelerometers on their dominant wrists to measure daily VILPA. Results showed that a minimum of 3.4 to 3.6 minutes of VILPA per day was associated with a 17% to 18% reduction in overall cancer risk. Additionally, a median daily VILPA of 4.5 minutes was linked to a 31% to 32% reduction in cancer types related to physical inactivity.
The findings suggest that even small amounts of VILPA can significantly lower cancer risk, making it a feasible intervention for those unable or unmotivated to engage in structured exercise. The study highlights the potential of incorporating short bursts of vigorous activity into daily routines as a practical strategy for cancer prevention.
Updated: July 14, 2024 12:22
References
1. JAMA Oncology - https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/fullarticle/2807734