New Study Highlights Promising Anti-Cancer Effects of Exercise

A recent study highlights how a single session of exercise can have a significant impact on healthspan by acting as a promising anti-cancer strategy.

The research examined the effects of a single session of resistance training (RT) versus high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on anti-cancer myokines and the suppression of cancer cell growth in breast cancer survivors.

Here's a quick breakdown of the key takeaways:

• Breast cancer is the leading cause of cancer-related death in women, highlighting the need for strategies to mitigate recurrence and mortality.

• Exercise is a recognized therapeutic intervention in cancer management and is associated with approximately a 20% lower risk of recurrence and mortality for breast cancer survivors.

• Myokines are signaling molecules secreted by skeletal muscle, and some, like decorin, IL-6, SPARC, and OSM, have been shown to suppress cancer cell growth.

• Both HIIT and RT sessions were shown to increase anti-cancer myokines and reduce the growth of MDA-MB-231 cancer cells in vitro.

• The HIIT group, however, showed a significantly greater reduction in cancer cell growth immediately after the exercise session compared to the RT group.

Exercise is one of several factors known to prevent or reduce the risk of cancer, as well as improve outcomes in patients already diagnosed. Regular exercise is linked to a lower risk of many types of cancer, including breast, colorectal, prostate, kidney, and lung. Physical activity strengthens the immune system, regulates hormones, and helps maintain a healthy weight. This is why developing targeted exercise prescriptions is so important for long-term health and well-being.