Being more active twice a day could significantly reduce the risk of developing bowel cancer, according to researchers. A new study found that being active at two key times in the day reduces the chance of contracting the disease by 11%. Researchers believe that highlighting set times when physical activity is “most beneficial” could lead to targeted cancer prevention strategies.
The research utilised data from the UK Biobank, assessing 86,252 individuals aged between 42 and 79 who tracked their physical activity using a wrist-worn device known as an accelerometer. Over a follow-up period of 5.3 years, some 529 cases of bowel cancer were recorded. Scientists identified four activity patterns and discovered that two daily peaks in activity, around 8am and 6pm, were “associated with reduced colorectal cancer risk, beyond the benefits of overall physical activity”.
Bowel cancer, also referred to as colorectal cancer, can develop anywhere in the large bowel, including the colon and rectum. It is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, with approximately 44,000 people diagnosed each year. According to Cancer Research UK, it results in around 16,800 deaths every year, making it the second most common cause of cancer death.
Professor Dr Michael Leitzmann, chairman of the department of epidemiology and preventive medicine at the University of Regensburg in Germany, led the study that has been published in BMC Medicine. He shared: “Our study highlights that not only is physical activity important for reducing colorectal cancer risk, but the timing of peak activity throughout the day could play a crucial role.” It appears that certain times – notably early morning and late evening – could be key to maximizing the cancer-preventive benefits of exercise.
Dr Helen Croker, assistant director of research and policy at the World Cancer Research Fund, sponsored the study and pointed out that being physically active is crucial for cancer prevention. She noted that the findings offer potential for developing more specific recommendations, including patterns and timing of physical activity, for reducing cancer risk.
In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into how timing physical activity at specific times during the day could significantly reduce the risk of developing bowel cancer. By identifying the most beneficial times for exercise, individuals may take proactive steps towards minimizing their cancer risk. Targeted cancer prevention strategies based on these findings could potentially have a significant impact on public health.