Preventing and curing colorectal cancer through physical activity

Reading time: 5 minutes
07/11/2024

Colorectal cancer, which affects the colon and rectum, is one of the most common cancers in France. According to Santé publique France , every year, 47,000 new cases are detected and 17,000 people die from it. It is the third most common cancer, and the second most deadly.

Screening is crucial, because cancer is cured in 9 out of 10 cases when detected at an early stage(French National Cancer Institute).

Colorectal cancer prevention through physical activity

There are many factors that increase the risk of colorectal cancer. Some are uncontrollable (age, medical history), but cancer can be prevented by a healthy lifestyle(Santé publique France):

- Eat enough fiber and limit red and processed meats

- Not be overweight or obese

- Limiting alcohol and tobacco consumption

- Do not be sedentary and physically inactive

Physical activity plays an essential role in preventing colorectal cancer. A physically active person reduces his or her risk of developing colon cancer by 40-50%(Benefits of physical activity during and after cancer). There is a strong correlation between the level of physical activity and the impact on cancer prevention: the more active a person is, the lower the risk of developing colon cancer.

Sport and colorectal cancer: a winning duo

Physical activity during cancer treatment can also improve patients' quality of life by improving body image, promoting sleep and reducing anxiety and depression. In fact, it acts on the production of thehappy hormones insulin and estrogen, reduces inflammation thanks to adiponectin and leptin, and boosts the immune system by mobilizing macrophages and lymphocytes. Physical activity also reduces the risk of death from cancer by 39%.

Colorectal cancer prevention in the workplace

Help your employees prevent colorectal cancer by bringing sport into the workplace with SPART. Companies can play a crucial role in preventing colorectal cancer by integrating sporting activity into their routines and encouraging employees to stay active. The benefits of corporate sport are manifold: SPART can help you motivate your team and improve your employees' well-being.

Fight colorectal cancer with SPART!

Physical activity and cancer: a non-drug treatment

Physical activity during cancer treatment helps reduce the adverse effects of chemotherapy, combats fatigue and depression, helps improve sleep, self-confidence and self-image, and reduces certain types of pain(AC Santé). The term "adapted physical activity" (APA) refers to physical activity that is adapted to each patient's physical abilities. Physicians can now prescribe APA as a treatment, indicating the main objectives (fatigue, mood, etc.) and any specific contraindications. Numerous physical and sporting activities can be adapted to colorectal cancer sufferers, and these disciplines are taught by educators trained in health sports. The cost of these APAs is not very high, and they are sometimes covered by mutual insurance companies. Patients report an improvement in both their physical well-being (greater autonomy and endurance) and mental well-being (less isolation and improved self-image)(VIDAL).

Cancer recovery: the importance of physical activity

It's important that patients who have been physically active during their healing process don't stop once they've recovered, as the benefits quickly fade away. Numerous studies have shown that physical activity helps to improve patients' immunity and reduce the risk of recurrence by 49%(Benefits of physical activity during and after cancer). In particular, it helps prevent "physical deconditioning". However, it is essential to consult your doctor before starting any new activity.

Make physical activity part of your daily routine

When we talk about physical activity, we're not talking exclusively about sport. Physical activities include movements performed in private and professional life(AC Santé). There are 3 types of intensity:

- Low (housework, yoga...)

- Moderate (cycling, brisk walking, swimming, aquagym...)

- High (uphill walking, tennis, soccer, running...)

Resources for physical activity after cancer

To find a place to exercise during or after colorectal cancer, visit the following websites:

- The league against cancer

- Sport and health centres

- CAMI Sport and Cancer

- Gym' Après Cancer

- Siel bleu...

Adopting physical literacy is also a good way to stay active throughout your life.

 

Physical activity is proving to be a valuable ally in the prevention and cure of colorectal cancer. By integrating active lifestyle habits, we can significantly reduce the risks associated with this cancer and improve patients' quality of life.

But the benefits of physical activity don't stop there. It also plays a crucial role in preventing other types of cancer, such as breast cancer.

 

So don't wait any longer to get moving and make physical activity part of your daily routine. Together, let's make prevention a priority and fight cancer through movement! 🚶‍♀️💪

By Candice Lhomme

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