Cancer Prevention: Get physically active
Make the decision to start now. Making healthy changes does not mean you have to start running marathons. Small changes to how active you are can make a difference.
Regular physical activity can help protect against certain types of cancer such as breast and colon cancer. Being active also keeps your heart healthy, makes your bones and muscles stronger and helps you feel better about yourself.
Physical activity is also one of the best ways to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Healthy bodies come in a range of weights, shapes and sizes but people who are overweight are at greater risk for cancer and other health problems.
- Emphasize balance, moderation and variety.
- Look at physical activity as fun, not hard work. Find activities that you enjoy. These activities do not have to take place in a gym, an exercise class or at a recreation facility.
- Find fun and easy ways to add physical activity into your day – at work or school, at home and at play.
- Talk to your doctor if you feel you need extra help to change your physical activity habits. Your doctor can put you in touch with helpful resources in your community.
April is Cancer Awareness Month in Canada
These tips were provided by MUHC Nutritionist, Ann Coughlin. Along with Interim Director of the Cancer Care Mission of the McGill University Health Centre, Dr. Armen Aprikian, she recommends you visit the Canadian Cancer Society's website to find more information on how to help prevent cancer, how to cope with the disease, and how to find community outreach groups.
