Chapter 8 Flashcards
Chapter Overview: Cancers
Focus on the relationship between physical activity and cancer.
Key topics include definitions, prevalence, mechanisms, guidelines, and survivorship.
Learning Objectives
Define cancer and types influenced by physical activity.
Discuss prevalence rates of activity-affectable cancers.
Examine how physical activity may lower cancer risk.
Understand physical activity guidelines for cancer prevention.
Explore physical activity's role in cancer survivorship.
Understanding Cancer
Definition
Cancer is a group of diseases characterized by uncontrolled abnormal cell growth and proliferation.
Unique types exist, each with different risks and prognoses.
Key Insights
Different cancers can recur or metastasize to other organs.
Some are more treatable with early diagnosis, while others may be rapidly fatal.
Evidence supports physical activity in improving cancer prognoses and quality of life for cancer patients.
Prevalence of Cancers
Risk Factors
Cancers can be idiopathic, and multiple risk factors exist, including:
Internal Factors: heredity, immune dysfunction, metabolism.
External Factors: behavior (smoking, sedentary lifestyle), environmental exposure.
Evidence of Physical Activity
Regular physical activity helps prevent colon and breast cancer.
Recent studies link physical activity to reduced risks in several cancers including bladder, endometrial, esophageal, kidney, and stomach cancers.
Cancer Statistics
Cancers were responsible for 23% of all deaths in the U.S. as of 2015.
CDC: estimated 1,620 cancer deaths daily.
In 2018, cancer caused an estimated 9.6 million deaths globally, projected to rise.
Link between lifestyle factors (obesity, inactivity, poor diet, smoking) and cancer risk.
Economic Burden of Cancer
Direct medical costs in 2015 were estimated at $80.2 billion in the U.S.
The burden encompasses healthcare costs and lost productivity.
Cancer Risk Factors
Modifiable Risk Factors
Physical Inactivity: associated with several cancers.
Obesity: increased BMI correlates with risk.
Tobacco Use: significant risk factor, contributing to lung cancer deaths.
Poor Nutrient Intake: low nutrient diets increase cancer risks.
Sun Exposure: excessive exposure raises skin cancer risk.
Nonmodifiable Risk Factors
Age: cancer risk increases with age (most over 55).
Heredity: genetic predispositions impact risk.
Sex: certain cancers are sex-specific (e.g., prostate, breast).
Kinesiology and Cancer
Significant research connects physical activity to reduced cancer incidence. Studies show a clear inverse relationship, demonstrating that increased physical activity correlates with lower cancer risks, notably for breast and colon cancers.
Mechanisms of Action
Proposed Mechanisms
Changes in body composition and adiposity improve key health markers.
Direct Physiological Effects
Improve insulin sensitivity and sex hormone levels that affect cancer risk.
Physical activity can lower colon transit time, reducing carcinogen exposure.
Screening for Early Diagnosis
Importance
Early detection through screening can prevent some cancers.
Regular screenings are advised for cancers like cervix, breast, and colon.
Physical Activity Among Cancer Survivors
Importance of Activity
Cancer survivors engaging in physical activity benefit from improved strength, fitness, and quality of life.
Health benefits observed include reduced fatigue and enhanced physical function.
Physical Activity Guidelines for Cancer Prevention
Recommendations
Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity activity weekly.
Strength training is advised for major muscle groups twice weekly.
Chapter Wrap-Up
Cancers arise from complex interactions of risk factors, and physical activity can mitigate risks for several types.
Survivors benefit significantly from regular physical activity which also aids in preventing new conditions.