Why Losing Muscle With Age May Raise Your Cancer Risk
Graded Preliminary — mechanistic study in fruit fly and mouse cancer models, with no data in people yet.
This study suggests maintaining muscle through exercise may support the body's natural anti-tumor signaling.
Healthy muscle releases tiny packets called extracellular vesicles that actually suppress tumor growth. As muscle shrinks with age (sarcopenia), it sends out fewer of these protective packets. In flies and mice, this helped tumors grow more easily. Exercise reactivated the pathway that produces these anti-tumor vesicles.
Disclaimer: Research summaries are provided for informational purposes only and do not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making changes to your health routine.
Topics
Related Studies
All researchMuscle Genes Linked to Natural Fitness Differ in Aging Rats Even Before Exercise
Rats born with high stamina carry a different chemical pattern on their muscle DNA as they age, before they ever run a wheel.
Vitamin D and Aerobic Exercise Each Linked to Lower Heart Risk in Older Adults
Older adults with higher vitamin D levels and a habit of aerobic exercise were less likely to have a cluster of heart and metabolic risk…
Brisk Walking Beat Most Other Workouts for Bone Density After 40
Most people assume heavy lifting is the only way to protect aging bones.