Scientists have found that just 10 minutes of intense physical activity can help slow the growth of cancer, particularly colorectal cancer. This opens up avenues for finding ways to mimic or enhance the biological effects of exercise to improve cancer treatment and patient outcomes. Colorectal cancer is the fourth most common cancer in the UK, with around 44,000 cases diagnosed annually. The study, conducted by researchers at Newcastle University, found that short, intense workouts rapidly change the makeup of molecules in the bloodstream, which inhibits the growth of colorectal cancer cells and speeds up the repair of damaged DNA. As people return to gyms or start new fitness programs in the New Year, recent research suggests that a short burst of intense exercise may contribute to cancer prevention. Exercise raises levels of certain molecules in the blood that reduce inflammation, support vascular health, and improve metabolism. According to the 'Science Alert' website, when colorectal cancer cells in the lab were exposed to blood containing these exercise-induced molecules, researchers observed widespread genetic changes, with the activity of more than 1,300 genes altered, including those responsible for DNA repair, energy production, and cancer cell growth. The study involved 30 volunteers aged 50 to 78 who were overweight but otherwise healthy. Each of them underwent a 10-minute intensive cycling test, after which levels of 13 proteins, including interleukin-6, which plays a role in DNA repair, increased. Dr. Sam Orange, the lead author of the study, explained that exercise not only benefits healthy tissues but also sends signals through the blood that can directly affect thousands of genes in cancer cells. Researchers estimate that regular physical activity reduces the risk of the disease by about 20%, and it is not limited to gyms but also includes daily activities such as walking, cycling, and gardening.
