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Ways to reduce your cancer risks
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by Dr. Ann Kulz
Healthy S.C. Challenge Tips Newsletter
I remain in awe of the spectacular power physical activity provides on
the disease-busting front. Two new studies trumpet its effectiveness
for keeping the big C at bay. Reporting in the British Journal of
Sports Medicine (July), Finnish researchers concluded that men who
engaged in moderate to vigorous exercise for at least 30 minutes daily
were 50 percent less likely to get cancer versus men who did less.
The study included more than 2,500 men ages 42-61 who were followed for
16 years. In the second report, Canadian researchers determined that
breast cancer survivors who engaged in recreational exercise and sports
during their lifetimes, significantly reduced their risk of breast
cancer death and recurrence.
After following 1,231 breast cancer patients for at least 8.3 years,
those who reported four or more hours of moderate intensity exercise
weekly during their lifetimes were 44 percent less likely to die from
their cancer and 34 percent less likely to have recurrence compared to
those who reported less exercise.
Based on the most exhaustive review of science to date, the three most
powerful lifestyle strategies available to decrease overall cancer risk
are (in order of importance): avoiding tobacco, maintaining a healthy
body weight, and engaging in regular physical activity.
Health 1st sponsored events
- Sept.
24: Worksite screening at Rutledge Tower— receive a blood test for
chemistry profile, lipid profile, and hemogram. All for $15 or $42
depending on your insurance. Registration is still open. Visit
www.musc.edu/medcenter/health1st.
- Every
Wednesday: Chair massage in the lobby of the Children’s Hospital and
Ashley River Tower. Look for Broadcast Message announcements every
Wednesday for exact times (usually from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.).
Editor's
note: The preceding column was brought to you on behalf of Health 1st.
Striving to bring various topics and representing numerous employee
wellness organizations and committees on campus, this weekly column
seeks to provide MUSC, MUHA and UMA employees with current and helpful
information concerning all aspects of health.
Friday, Sept. 18, 2009
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