World Cancer Day: Examining the impact of physical activity on preventing breast cancer

Every year on February 4, World Cancer Day is observed around the globe. The initiative aims at raising awareness and inspiring action in the ongoing battle against cancer. Through a collective commitment to improving prevention strategies, and enhancing access to quality healthcare, we can strive towards a world where the burden of cancer is reduced, and individuals affected by the disease receive the care and support they deserve.

In a world where health consciousness is on the rise, the connection between lifestyle choices and disease prevention is becoming increasingly evident. Recent studies have shed new light on the profound effect of an active lifestyle on reducing the risk of breast cancer among women. "The evidence is compelling: embracing an active lifestyle isn't just about staying fit; it's a powerful shield against breast cancer. The benefits extend beyond individual health, impacting communities and societies at large. It's never too late to adopt a healthier way of life and reap the physical and mental rewards that come with it," agrees Dr Karishma Kirti, consultant breast specialist and oncoplastic surgeon. Ahead of World Cancer Day, she helps us further our understanding of the impact of an active lifestyle in lowering the risk of breast cancer, and its significance after a breast cancer diagnosis.

Movement as prevention strategy
Breast cancer, a prevalent concern affecting millions of women worldwide, has been the subject of extensive research. One recurring theme in this exploration is the powerful role that regular physical activity plays in diminishing the likelihood of developing this formidable disease.

According to studies, women who make physical activity a consistent part of their lives demonstrate a significantly lower risk of breast cancer compared to their sedentary counterparts. The benefits of an active lifestyle extend beyond mere statistical reduction, showing a 10 per cent to 20 per cent decrease in breast cancer risk among women who engage in regular exercise.

Postmenopausal women, in particular, stand to gain substantial protective advantages from maintaining an active routine. This demographic, often more susceptible to certain health risks, experiences a notably clearer benefit from regular physical activity.

How much physical activity to undertake
The American Cancer Society recommends a moderate approach to exercise, suggesting 150-300 minutes (21⁄2-5 hours) of moderate physical activity per week or 75-100 minutes (about 1-2 hours) of vigorous activity. This level of commitment has been associated not only with a decreased risk of breast cancer but also with an overall reduction in cancer risk. The types of activities considered beneficial range from the moderate, such as walking, mowing the lawn, and slow dancing, to the vigorous, including jogging, playing tennis, and swimming.

What's interesting is that the protective effects of exercise are not solely contingent on high-intensity workouts. Women who engage in activity equivalent to a brisk 30-minute walk each day can experience a noteworthy 3 per cent reduction in breast cancer risk.

In what ways does being active potentially contribute to breast cancer prevention
Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent breast cancer, maintaining an active lifestyle is associated with several health benefits that may contribute to a lower risk of developing breast cancer. While the focus has often been on the impact of physical activity in adulthood, ongoing research is exploring the potential links between childhood and adolescent physical activity and the risk of breast cancer later in life. Preliminary findings suggest a potential protective effect associated with a more active childhood and teenage years. The mechanisms through which exercise influences breast cancer risk are multifaceted, including:

1. Hormone regulation
Physical activity may help regulate hormone levels in the body, including oestrogen. Elevated levels of oestrogen have been associated with an increased risk of certain types of breast cancer. Regular exercise can help maintain a healthy hormonal balance.

2. Weight management
Engaging in regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining a healthy weight. Obesity and excess body fat, particularly after menopause, have been linked to an increased risk of breast cancer. Exercise can help control weight and reduce body fat.

3. Immune system boost
Regular physical activity has been shown to strengthen the immune system. A robust immune system can better defend the body against the development and spread of cancer cells.

4. Reduced inflammation
Chronic inflammation is believed to play a role in the development of various cancers, including breast cancer. Regular exercise has anti-inflammatory effects, which may contribute to a lower cancer risk.

5. Improved insulin sensitivity
Physical activity improves insulin sensitivity, helping to regulate blood sugar levels. Insulin resistance has been associated with an increased risk of certain cancers, including breast cancer.

6. Enhanced mental health
Maintaining an active lifestyle is not only beneficial for physical health but also for mental well-being. Reducing stress and promoting mental health may indirectly contribute to overall health and cancer prevention.

Lifestyle post-cancer
The significance of an active lifestyle does not diminish after a breast cancer diagnosis. Studies show that being active post-diagnosis is linked to a lower risk of breast cancer-specific mortality and overall mortality.

It's important to understand that if you are a survivor and have had surgery to the breast and armpit, you may feel some stiffness when you start. Having a physiotherapist or a trainer who is well versed with and has experience with cancer patients can be a game changer.

While being active is a positive factor, it's just one component of a healthy lifestyle. Other factors such as maintaining a balanced diet, limiting alcohol consumption, avoiding smoking, and staying up-to-date with screenings and check-ups also play significant roles in breast cancer prevention.

As we navigate the complexities of modern living, finding time for exercise can be challenging. However, small changes in daily routines, such as using stairs instead of elevators, walking or biking instead of driving, or taking a quick break to stretch, can collectively contribute to an active lifestyle.