Review: Physical activity and the risk of colon cancer
Researchers at Washington University School of Medicine, in St Louis, Missouri, examined physical activity or exercise and the prevalence of colon adenoma or polyps.
First, the details.
- 20 studies were identified and examined.
And, the results.
- More physical activity was associated with less risk of colon adenomas (non cancerous tumors).
- The association was similar in men and women.
- The association appeared slightly stronger in large/advanced polyps (usually nonmalignant growth or tumor protruding from the mucous lining).
The bottom line?
The authors concluded, “This study confirms previous reports of a significant inverse association of physical activity and colon adenoma, and suggests that physical activity can have an important role in colon cancer prevention.”
3/9/11 20:17 JR