According to new research findings, regular exercise can help prevent cancer beyond reducing excess weight.  Vigorous exercise (to the point of sweating and/or getting out of breath) has been shown to lower risk of rectal cancer by 40 percent. Women engaged in 1-1/4 to 2-1/2 hours of brisk walking per week have shown an 18 percent lower risk of breast cancer compared to inactive women. Physical activity seems to improve the body’s antioxidant defense systems and to strengthen other immune defenses to protect against cancer.

Source: American Institute for Cancer Research, www.aicr.org. (Reported in Wellness News You Can Use, National Wellness Institute, July 2004)