Exercise is linked to a reduced risk of seven types of cancer, and the more physical activity the better, according to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology. The study pooled data from nine studies, involving more than 755,000 adults. Among both men and women, the risk of kidney cancer was reduced by up to 17 percent, liver cancer by up to 27 percent and myeloma by up to 19 percent. Among men, increased exercise was linked to up to a 14 percent reduced risk for colon cancer. Among women, more physical activity was associated with up to a 10 percent lower risk for breast cancer and up to an 18 percent lower risk of both endometrial cancer non-Hodgkin lymphoma.

            The findings are not surprising to doctors at The University of Kansas Health System. In the video, Dr. Jeff Holzbeierlein, a urology surgeon, talks about the research, how it was conducted and what it shows. He also answers the question of why he thinks exercise may lower the cancer risk for these seven types of cancer.

            Dr. Jill Hamilton-Reeves is a cancer researcher and dietitian at The University of Kansas Health System who focuses on nutrition and cancer prevention. She says the role of nutrition in this study is extremely important, as it goes along with exercise. She says she’s noticed for a long time that cancer patients who exercise and eat right have much better results in dealing with the disease.

            Also in the video is Dr. Sarah Stolte, a weight management specialist at The University of Kansas Health System, who is excited by the study. She says while the study may not say that exercise is the sole reason for the reduced rate of some cancers, she knows firsthand the positive effects of consistent exercise. She talks about the right kinds of exercise, and suggests 150 to 300 minutes per week to have a real benefit.

            The video also includes an interview with Jeanne McGee, a 70-year-old woman who works out at the Kirmayer Fitness Center on the University of Kansas Medical Center campus. She talks about why exercise is such a big part of her life, and why she was excited to hear about the benefits shown in the new study. She is also shown in her workout routine.