The Effects of Sports on Colorectal Cancer

Regular Exercise May Help Reduce the Risk of Colon Cancer

Nowadays, different types of sports are booming because it is a great way reduce stress from work, family, friends, and school. It became not only a form of hobby but  a great way to relax and bond with our family and friends. Also, research shows that physical activity reduces the risk of colon cancer. This was proven because people who are more physically active are less likely to acquire such illnesses.

Research shows that being active to sports and other forms of physical activities lessens the possibility of having colon cancer by:

  • Improving the immune system
  • Reducing inflammation and insulin resistance
  • Lessening the time for food to transfer to the large intestine or colon, thus decreasing exposure
  • Decreasing stages of hormones such as insulin and estrogen that is believed to be linked to the development of and growth of cancerous cells
  • Prevents other factors that contribute to the development of colorectal cancer.

These are just some of the positive impacts of sports to the human body when it comes to reducing the risk of colon cancer. Studies on other factors have been conducting by researchers.

To learn more about risks for colon cancer,you can try contacting and consulting Theodore DaCosta, MD, a gastroenterologist in West Orange, NJ. He has thirty years of experience specializing in Gastroenterology and Internal Medicine.

How Much Should a Person Exercise to Prevent Colon Cancer?

Adults from 40 years old and above are most likely to get colon cancer. Therefore, the US Department of Health and Human Services advised that adults should have at least 15 minutes of aerobic exercises and other sports such as badminton and other similar moderate-intensity exercises.

Moreover, teenagers and young adults can also benefit from doing sports especially those who are athletes and active. According to DHHS, they need at least 80 minutes of  moderate-intensity exercise per week.  There are many types of physical activities such as: Hiking, swimming, walking, running, dancing, soccer, basketball, volleyball. These are great ways to get enough exercise needed per week. However, one must take note that engaging to sports is not enough to avoid colon cancer. A healthy balanced diet is needed and lifestyle helps in lowering the chance of having cancer.