Physical activity for prostate health – New Study
It is already commonly known that physical activity is highly beneficial fo our overall health that this article does not need any introduction. But, do you also know what are the benefits of physical activity and a healthy lifestyle on the health of your prostate? Researchers have recently shed some light on the positive effects of increased physical activity and prostate cancer prevention or even avoidance of recurrence after receiving treatment.
Benefits of physical activity
Physical activity does not only improve physical health but also the emotional one, a very important fact especially after receiving treatment. What is even more, a physically active man can cut his risk of developing the disease in the future.
“Physical activity” is an expression that can be understood in many different ways. You do not have to worry thinking that you do not have time or energy to practice a sport or go to the gym. Physical activity refers to any kind of activity that requires your energy.
A recently published study from the University of Bristol and Imperial College London, with the aid of many other colleagues worldwide, has revealed many new aspects of prostate cancer risk factors.
This group of researchers has chosen to use a different approach in order to find more insights on what may be the risk factors for prostate cancer and what can be done in order to reduce the risks.
Recent study on prostate cancer risk factors
The method used by the researchers is the so-called “Mendelian randomization.” This method refers to the assessment of genetic variations that may indicate a certain relationship between diverse factors and their potential outcomes.
Researchers have used data from the World Cancer Research Fund’s (WCRF) 2018 systematic review to identify the potential risk factors, including decreased physical activity.
Additionally, they were able to use information from 79.148 patients with prostate cancer as well as from 61.106 men without prostate cancer.
Furthermore, researchers have analyzed their genetic variations and revealed an important connection between physical activity and cancer risks. They found out that men who presented genetic variations that increased their likelihood of being physically active had a 51% lower risk of developing prostate cancer than the ones who did not have this genetic variation.
But what does it mean to be physically active?
As previously stated, physical activity does not refer to the work of a culturist. There are things that everyone can do, with just a little effort. Here is a list of some physical activities you can include in your everyday life in order to protect your health, especially prostate health.
Benefits of physical activity on your health
- Strengthening the pelvic floor – The pelvic floor is the name given to a group of muscles and structures that support bowel and bladder functions along with the sexual organs. Physical activity contributes to strengthening these muscles in order to keep the prostate healthy.
- Reducing anxiety
- Increasing optimism
- Maintaining a healthy weight – A study sponsored by the American Cancer Society has revealed that the risk of dying from cancer was 52% higher in obese men than in men of normal weight.
As 2020 approaches, set for yourself goals that will help you lead a healthier life. Choose to be active and the benefits will exceed the efforts!