Physical activity and risk of cancer in middle-aged men
2001

Physical Activity and Cancer Risk in Middle-Aged Men

Sample size: 7588 publication Evidence: moderate

Author Information

Author(s): Wannamethee S G, Shaper A G, Walker M

Primary Institution: Royal Free and University College Medical School

Hypothesis

Does physical activity reduce the risk of cancer in middle-aged men?

Conclusion

Physical activity, especially at moderately-vigorous or vigorous levels, is associated with a reduced risk of total cancers and specific types of cancer in middle-aged men.

Supporting Evidence

  • Cancer incidence data were obtained from death certificates and national cancer registration.
  • 969 men developed cancer during the follow-up period.
  • Significant reduction in cancer risk was observed only with moderately-vigorous or vigorous physical activity.

Takeaway

If middle-aged men exercise a lot, they are less likely to get cancer.

Methodology

A prospective study examining the relationship between physical activity and cancer incidence over an average follow-up of 18.8 years.

Potential Biases

Self-reported data on physical activity may introduce reporting bias.

Limitations

The study only included men aged 40-59 and did not account for all potential confounding factors.

Participant Demographics

Men aged 40-59 years.

Statistical Information

Statistical Significance

p<0.05

Digital Object Identifier (DOI)

10.1054/bjoc.2001.2096

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