Daijiworld Media Network – Sydney
Sydney, Sep 17: Regular exercise may play a powerful role in slowing cancer growth, according to new research from Edith Cowan University (ECU).
The study found that both resistance training (RT) and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) produced sufficient levels of myokines—proteins released by muscles during exercise—which are known to have cancer-fighting properties.
Resistance training involves the use of weights or external force to build muscle and strength, while HIIT consists of short bursts of intense exercise alternated with recovery periods to enhance cardiovascular fitness and endurance.
Researchers observed that breast cancer survivors who undertook a 12-week training programme showed reduced growth of breast cancer cells in vitro—by 22 per cent in the case of RT and 25 per cent for HIIT.
“This suggests both types of exercise may help slow cancer cell growth,” said Francesco Bettariga, lead researcher of the study.
Although both methods proved beneficial, the team noted that HIIT offered additional advantages. “Interestingly, with HIIT, the reduction in cancer cell growth was linked to an increase in lean muscle and a decrease in body fat after 12 weeks of training,” Bettariga explained.
The researchers stressed that different forms of exercise affect the body differently. Resistance training substantially improves muscle strength and mass, while HIIT stimulates cardiorespiratory fitness and reduces fat mass.
“It is very important to determine if different types of exercise produce different effects on myokines and their potential cancer-suppressive properties,” Bettariga said.
The study followed breast cancer survivors over 12 weeks, analysing their blood samples before and after the programme. Results showed that both groups had significantly higher levels of myokines at the end of the programme.
“This means regardless of whether you choose resistance training or HIIT, both can deliver benefits in the fight against cancer,” Bettariga added.