Monday July 07, 2014 (foodconsumer.org) -- Observational studies have already revealed an association between physical activity and reduced risk of breast cancer.   A new review article confirms that physical activity can reduce the risk of breast cancer in postmenopausal women.

The review based on data from 9 cohort studies and 14 case-control studies finds that physical activity was associated with 16% to 39% reduced risk of breast cancer.

The review also reveals that the reduction in risk of developing breast cancer was mainly found in postmenopausal women.

One theory that explains the preventative effect of physical activity against breast cancer is that physical exercise can lower the serum level of estrogen, which promote the growth of breast cancer cells, and boost immunity.

More than 230,000 women in the United States are expected to develop breast cancer each year and the disease and its complications kill about 40,000 women annually, according to the National Cancer Institute.

Breast cancer is preventable in most cases.  Women can significantly reduce the risk if they can follow calorie restriction, reduce intake of red meat, increase intake of vegetables and fruit, reduce exposure to environmental risk factors such as medical radiation and hormone replacement therapy.  (David Liu, PHD)

Gonçalves AK, Dantas Florencio GL, Maisonnette de Atayde Silva MJ, Cobucci RN, Giraldo PC, Cote NM, Effects of physical activity on breast cancer prevention: a systematic review., Journal of Physical Activity & Health [2014, 11(2):445-454