Issue link: http://cp.revolio.com/i/510259
B reast cancer is a growing epidemic among women, with just under 12 percent of women developing an invasive form of the disease during their lifetimes. This works out to about one in eight U.S. women! Research suggests, however, that one of the most powerful ways to lower this risk substantially is through the simple act of exercise. New research is underway to determine just how much exercise is best for cancer prevention, but studies already performed show physical activity may reduce breast cancer risk by up to 40 percent. Exercise effects several biological functions that may influence your cancer risk, including immune function, antioxidant defense, DNA repair, hormone levels and more. The best exercise programs are those that include a variety of activities, also including strength training, core work, stretching, and most importantly, high-intensity interval training. Physical Activity Reduces the Risk of Early Death A recent study by researchers has found that even light or moderately intense physical activity, such as walking or cycling, can substantially reduce your risk of early death. The study combined the results from the largest studies around the world on the health impact of light and moderately intense physical activity. Although more activity is better, the benefits of even a small amount of physical activity were very large in the least physically active group of people. Science Daily reports: "The good news from this study is that you don't have to be an exercise freak to benefit from physical activity. Just achieving the recommended levels of physical activity (equivalent to 30 minutes daily of moderate intensity activity 5 days a week) reduces the risk of death by 19 percent ... while 7 hours per week of moderate activity (compared with no activity) reduces the risk of death by 24 percent." The meta analysis, published in the International Journal of Epidemiology, included a total of 22 studies evaluating the impact of exercise on mortality of nearly 1 million people. It clearly shows that if you are currently living a very sedentary lifestyle, the mere act of incorporating some light to moderate activity, five days a week, can significantly reduce your mortality rate. Those who engaged in moderate intensity activity a full seven days a week further reduced their risk of death, from 19 to 24 percent. The smallest health effect, however, was seen in people who limited their exercise to just walking, so although it's better than nothing, if you're physically able, consider including a few other modes of activity to boost your benefits. Exercise: Simple Activity to Radically Decrease Breast Cancer Risk Page 56 | Abby's Magazine - www.AbbysMag.com