More evidence that it pays to stay fit in the battle against prostate cancer.
A new study finds just a small boost in physical activity can lower the risk of prostate cancer by as much as 35%.
Researchers say based on these results all men should be encouraged to exercise more to help prevent the disease.
The study included nearly 58,000 men who reported on their exercise and lifestyle habits, had their body mass index and height measured and rated their overall sense of health.
The participants also underwent a series of cardiorespiratory fitness tests using stationary bikes.
And after years of monitoring, the results showed men who increased their cardiorespiratory fitness by 3% or more a year had 35% lower odds of being diagnosed with prostate cancer compared to those whose fitness had declined from baseline.
No link was discovered between improved fitness and prostate cancer mortality.
The authors say, “The results highlight the importance of [cardiorespiratory fitness] for prostate cancer risk, which has been challenging… Improvements in [cardiorespiratory fitness] in adult men should be encouraged and may reduce the risk of prostate cancer.”