It comes as no surprise that exercise can help to lower the risk of certain diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. However, a new study shows that exercise can also help lower the risk of getting cancer. Exercise can lower the risk of many different types of cancer, but did not affect or heightened the risk of other kinds.

A study of 1.4 million people showed that those who exercised the most had a 42% lower chance of esophageal cancer and a 27% lower chance of liver cancer over 11 years.

Of the types of cancers that the risks are lessened, the study found the following:

• 26% lower risk of lung cancer

• 23% lower risk of kidney cancer

• 22% lower risk of stomach cancer

• 21% lower risk of endometrial cancer

• 20% lower risk of myeloid leukemia

• 16% lower risk of colon cancer

• 10% lower risk of breast cancer

The team at the U.S. Cancer Institute looked at dozens of cancer studies conducted both in the U.S. and Europe. They then compared those that exercised more than 90% of everyone else in the study to those that exercised the least.

On average, the exercisers completed just over two and a half hours of moderate exercise such as walking a week.

Obesity is a well-known cancer risk factor, but the study found that exercise helped even those who are obese lower their risk of cancer. However, those who exercise more are healthier in other ways that may reduce the risk of cancer.

There was one odd finding about exercise and lung cancer. It only helped to lower the risk in current and former smokers.

Men who exercised also showed a higher rate of prostate cancer. The study did state that it is possible that men who exercise are more likely to go to the doctor and get prostate screening exams.

The study indicated that doctors should be prescribing exercise to their patients. Only about half of Americans get the minimum recommended amounts of exercise.

If you have an exercise goal and need help in reaching it, contact Frank Tortorici. As a certified personal trainer, Frank can help guide you to reaching any of your fitness goals. Contact him today for an appointment.