Regular physical activity linked to a lower risk for lung and breast cancer in females
A growing body of evidence suggests that regular physical activity plays a crucial role in reducing the risk of breast and lung cancers, as well as other obesity-related cancers.
Studies demonstrate that increasing physical activity levels over time is associated with a lower risk of developing breast cancer. A meta-analysis of 38 studies, conducted by a French research team from the International Prevention Research Institute, encompassing 4.18 million women and over 116,000 breast cancer cases, found that women who adhered to recommended exercise guidelines—at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic activity plus muscle-strengthening exercises twice weekly—had a reduced risk of breast cancer [1].
The protective power of regular movement appears to work regardless of body weight and the type of physical activity, with benefits seen from walking, swimming, cycling, or dancing [3]. Women who begin an exercise regimen later in life still see significant protective benefits against breast cancer, contradicting the common assumption that preventative measures must begin early in life [6].
Women who engage in the highest levels of weekly physical activity demonstrate up to a 20% lower risk of developing breast cancer [5]. Even four hours of moderate weekly activity can reduce breast cancer risk by 31% [4].
Regular physical activity is also linked to a lower risk of lung cancer, particularly in non-smokers. Increased activity reduces risk by mechanisms that likely involve improved immune function and reduced inflammation [2][4]. Emerging research suggests regular physical activity may improve cells' ability to repair DNA damage, a critical function for preventing mutations that can lead to cancer development [7].
The lung cancer protective effect appears to follow a dose-response relationship - as physical activity increases, cancer risk consistently decreases [4]. Women who smoke and maintain regular physical activity show significantly lower lung cancer rates than their sedentary counterparts [2].
The standard guidelines recommended by major health organizations are: - At least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise (such as brisk walking, swimming, cycling) - Or 75 minutes per week of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise (running, aerobics, climbing) - Plus muscle-strengthening exercises at least two days per week [1][4]
Even moderate daily activities such as walking, household chores, and climbing stairs contribute to lowering cancer risk. Being consistently active throughout the week matters more than intensity alone [4].
Exercise post-cancer diagnosis aids recovery, reduces treatment side effects like fatigue and neuropathy, improves quality of life, and enhances survival rates across many cancer types [1][4].
In summary, regular physical activity—meeting or exceeding the 150 minutes per week aerobic exercise guideline along with strength training—significantly lowers the risk of breast and lung cancer, among others, and helps improve outcomes in cancer patients [1][2][3][4][5]. Engaging in even moderate daily activity can be an effective, accessible cancer prevention strategy. Beginning with just 10-15 minutes daily and slowly increasing duration provides the same benefits as diving into more intense regimens.
- Scientific studies indicate that regular physical activity, such as walking, swimming, or cycling, can significantly lower the risk of developing breast cancer, even among women who start their exercise regimen later in life.
- A meta-analysis of 38 studies revealed that women who adhered to recommended exercise guidelines, which involve at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise and muscle-strengthening exercises twice weekly, had a lower risk of breast cancer.
- Beyond breast cancer, regular physical activity is also linked to a lower risk of lung cancer, particularly in non-smokers, and may improve cells' ability to repair DNA damage, potentially reducing the risk of other medical conditions like cancer.
