Physical activity has long been known to have a significant impact on overall health, and a recent study suggests that the timing of exercise could play a crucial role in reducing the risk of bowel cancer. Researchers from Regensburg University conducted a study using data from the UK Biobank, involving 86,252 participants aged 42 to 79. The study found that being more active in the morning and evening could decrease the risk of bowel cancer by 11%.
The study, published in BMC Medicine, analysed the activity patterns of participants, including continuous day-long activity, activity late in the day, activity in the morning and evening, and activity at midday and at night. The researchers identified two daily peaks in activity, at around 8am and 6pm, which were associated with a reduced risk of colorectal cancer.
Bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, with approximately 44,000 people diagnosed each year. The lead investigator of the study, Professor Dr Michael Leitzmann, highlighted the importance of not only being physically active but also exercising at specific times of the day to further reduce cancer risk. Dr. Helen Croker, from the World Cancer Research Fund, which funded the study, emphasised the potential for developing more specific recommendations on the patterns and timing of physical activity to reduce the risk of cancer.
These findings offer new insights into targeted cancer prevention strategies and provide individuals with practical guidance on when to schedule their exercise routines for maximum benefits. By incorporating these specific timings into daily routines, individuals may be able to further reduce their risk of developing bowel cancer.
The study’s emphasis on the relationship between exercise timing and cancer risk opens up avenues for future research and the development of personalised prevention strategies. By aligning physical activity with the body’s natural rhythms, individuals can potentially enhance the protective effects of exercise against colorectal cancer.
As more research is conducted in this area, it is essential for individuals to be mindful of not only the quantity but also the timing of their physical activity to promote better health outcomes. By incorporating exercise into daily routines during specific times of the day, individuals may take proactive steps towards reducing their risk of developing bowel cancer and improving overall well-being.