Regular exercise can reduce the risk of prostate cancer in Caucasians

A recent research study conducted by US scientists found regular workout can reduce the risk of prostate cancer in Caucasians. The study results were published in CANCER, an esteemed peer-reviewed International journal of American Cancer Society. The same study did not found any exercise-related benefits in black men with prostate cancer, and the underlying cause is yet to be studies. 

When compared to white men, Afro-American men are prone to cancer and exercise can influence the risk of prostate cancer in white males. Scientists believe genetic influences in prostate cancer cells could be a possible reason for the racial disparity.

A team of researchers guided by Dr. Lionel Bañez from Durham Veteran Affairs Medical Center conducted a medical survey has been conducted and physical activity of the participants and based on exercise activities they were classified as highly active, moderately active, mild active and sedentary lifestyle individual. Around 307 participants including 143 blacks and 164 whites were participated. The participants underwent prostate biopsy to diagnose risk, incidence and stage of prostate cancer. The survey questionnaire evaluated the number of exercise work out hours per week.

The study results found highly or moderately active Caucasian white men were less prone to prostate cancer by statistically significant rate of 53%. The rate is far better than men who were mildly active or sedentary. However, the exercise-related positive association was found mainly in Caucasian but not in Afro-Americans.

The researchers are working to explore the association between exercise and tumor grades in prostate cancer patients.

Previous research studies found, when compared to patients who had regular exercise, the progression of prostate cancer to advanced stages is more unlikely in about 13% of patients. Advanced stage of prostate cancer is diagnosed based on uncontrolled cancer progression and spread to distant organs.

Evidence-based medical research studies found vigorous exercises in male cancer patients can likely cut cancer-related deaths in males.

No concrete beneficial effects were found in Afro-Americans, said Dr. Lionel said. The race-associated factors of prostate cancer progression and regular exercise are to studied further with special reference to Afro-Americans, Dr. Lionel added.