A recent study suggests that men can significantly reduce their risk of prostate cancer by up to 35% through activities like jogging, cycling, or swimming, contributing to improved cardiorespiratory fitness. Boosting fitness by a mere 3% annually was associated with a substantial decrease in the likelihood of developing the disease, prompting researchers to encourage men to prioritize fitness to mitigate their prostate cancer risk.
Dr. Kate Bolam, co-author of the study from the Swedish School of Sport and Health Sciences in Stockholm, emphasized the effectiveness of more intensive activities, stating, “The more intensive activity, the lower the requirement for duration and frequency.” Activities engaging the lower body, such as brisk walking, jogging, or hiking, were recommended for a more significant impact. Bolam highlighted the importance of challenging the cardiovascular system regularly to enhance its capacity.
While the study didn’t specify how to achieve a 3% increase in cardiorespiratory fitness, Bolam advised individuals to choose enjoyable activities that elevate heart rate and can be seamlessly integrated into their weekly routine.
The research, analyzing data from 57,652 men, including physical activity levels, height, BMI, lifestyle, and health information, found that those with an annual 3% improvement in cardiorespiratory fitness were 35% less likely to be diagnosed with prostate cancer during the seven-year follow-up. The findings were published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
Simon Grieveson from Prostate Cancer UK noted the study’s contribution to existing evidence linking exercise to a lower risk of prostate cancer. While emphasizing the positive impact of regular exercise and a balanced diet on general health, Grieveson acknowledged the need for further research to definitively establish the link between physical activity and prostate cancer risk.
Matt Lambert, Health Information and Promotion Manager at World Cancer Research Fund, highlighted the importance of cardiorespiratory fitness in overall health and longevity. He noted the study’s valuable insights into how fitness, as a risk factor, may play a role in reducing the risk of prostate cancer in men.
