Slow Bowel Cancer: A new study from Newcastle University suggests that even short bursts of daily exercise may play a powerful role in slowing the growth of bowel cancer and supporting the body’s ability to repair damaged DNA. The findings, published in the International Journal of Cancer, provide a potential explanation for why physically active people tend to have a lower risk of cancer progression an observation that doctors have noted for years but could not fully explain until now.
How Exercise Influences Cancer Cells
The research involved 30 overweight or obese men who were otherwise healthy. Each participant completed a 10–12 minute cycling session, after which blood samples were collected both before and immediately after the exercise.
Researchers then exposed laboratory-grown bowel cancer cells to the blood serum from before and after exercise. The results were striking.
Following exercise, the participants’ blood showed elevated levels of 13 specific proteins, many of which are known to:
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Reduce inflammation
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Support healthy blood vessel function
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Promote proper metabolism
When cancer cells were exposed to the post-exercise blood, the activity of over 1,300 genes changed. This included genes responsible for DNA repair, energy production, and cell growth. In simpler terms, exercise seemed to make it harder for cancer cells to repair DNA damage and slowed their ability to multiply.
Expert Insights on the Findings
Dr. Sam Orange, senior lecturer in clinical exercise physiology at Newcastle University and lead author of the study, highlighted the significance of the research.
“What’s remarkable is that exercise doesn’t just benefit healthy tissues,” Dr. Orange said. “It sends powerful signals through the bloodstream that can directly influence thousands of genes in cancer cells.”
He emphasized that even a single 10-minute workout is enough to create a less favorable environment for cancer cells, showing just how potent short bouts of physical activity can be.
“These findings could guide future research into treatments that mimic the effects of exercise, especially in helping cells repair DNA and manage energy,” he added.
Exercise Benefits Beyond Cancer
While this study focused on bowel cancer, experts stress that regular physical activity supports overall health.
Genevieve Edwards, chief executive of Bowel Cancer UK, explained that previous research consistently shows active individuals have a lower risk of bowel cancer as well as many other types of cancer.
She recommends aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
Lifestyle Steps to Reduce Bowel Cancer Risk
Along with regular exercise, other lifestyle factors can help lower the risk of bowel cancer:
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Eating a high-fibre diet: Focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and pulses.
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Limiting processed and red meat: Avoid excess consumption.
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Maintaining a healthy weight: Preventing obesity can reduce risk.
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Avoiding tobacco: Smoking is a known cancer risk factor.
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Moderating alcohol intake: Limiting alcohol can help protect the digestive system.
“Making lifestyle changes can be challenging,” Edwards said, “but the evidence shows the effort pays off.”
How to Make It a Daily Habit
Incorporating even 10 minutes of exercise into your daily routine doesn’t have to be complicated. Simple activities such as brisk walking, cycling on a stationary bike, light jogging, or even bodyweight exercises at home can trigger the beneficial changes highlighted by the study. Experts recommend finding a time that works consistently, whether in the morning, during lunch breaks, or in the evening. Pairing exercise with other healthy habits, like a balanced diet rich in fibre, proper hydration, and adequate sleep can maximize the protective effects against bowel cancer and improve overall well-being.
Key Takeaways
This study reinforces a powerful message: small, daily actions matter. Even brief exercise sessions can have measurable effects on the body’s biology, including influencing the genes of cancer cells.
While more research is needed to fully understand the implications, the findings provide hope that simple, accessible lifestyle changes like cycling for ten minutes a day can make a real difference in cancer prevention and overall health.
Medical Disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. If you have concerns about cancer or your risk, consult a qualified healthcare provider.
Shreya Gandhi is a writer at MedicoDrive.com with a Master’s in English from Mumbai. She covers medicolegal cases, NMC/DCI updates, medical education, and health news from India and around the world. Passionate about journalism, she brings clarity to complex medical topics.