Exercise boosts cancer-fighting proteins in breast cancer survivors, finds study

A study published in the National Library of Medicine (NIH) has found that both resistance training (RT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can boost cancer-fighting proteins (myokines) and help suppress breast cancer cell growth.

The study titled “A single bout of resistance or high-intensity interval training increases anti-cancer myokines and suppresses cancer cell growth in vitro in survivors of breast cancer,” the study involved 32 breast cancer survivors who performed either RT or HIIT.

Researchers reported that both forms of exercise increased key anti-cancer proteins, while also slowing the growth of breast cancer cells in lab tests. HIIT showed stronger immediate effects compared to RT.

The findings highlight the potential of targeted exercise in reducing the risk of cancer recurrence and improving survivorship outcomes.

In addition, another study published in the American Cancer Society’s peer-reviewed journal, CANCER, revealed that excess weight may raise the risk of breast cancer among postmenopausal women with cardiovascular disease.

A higher body mass index (BMI) is already known to be a risk factor for breast cancer in postmenopausal women. The study provides new insights into how this risk differs between women with and without cardiovascular disease or type 2 diabetes.

(With inputs from syndicated feed)