Marathonians are more exposed to colorectal cancer, according to this study

Regular physical activity, such as running, is associated with a drop in the risk of at least eight different cancers. Similarly, But beware of excesses … Similarly, According to a study by oncologists from the Inova Schar Cancer Institute in Virginia (United States). the runners of marathon and ultramarathons, even young, would present a high rate of precancerous colon lesions, as reported by Gizmodo.

A 15 % rate – Marathonians more exposed colorectal cancer,

“We did not expect these high-risk adenomas rates. which are precursor lesions of cancer, in an age group like this,” said New York Times David Lieberman, gastroenterologist and emeritus professor at Oregon Health and Science University. The study participants were 100 athletes aged 35 to 50. Timothy Cannon. principal researcher, wanted to focus on this age group after having treated three ultra-marathonians under the age of 40 with colorectal cancer.

All study athletes ran marathonians more exposed colorectal cancer, at least two ultramarathons or five classic marathons. They also have no family history of colorectal cancer or other apparent risk factors. However, the results of their colonoscopies have revealed polyps in half of them, and adenomas advanced in 15 %. For these lesions, the rate is on average 1.2 % in people aged 40 with an average risk of colorectal cancer.

Some hypotheses

A link could therefore exist between an intensive sporting practice and a higher risk of colorectal cancer. Among the advanced explanations: running could temporarily reduce blood flow to the intestines. In these runners, this could thus lead to chronic inflammation which would promote the appearance of this type of cancer. More generally, a link could be made with digestive disorders for effort.

In marathonians more exposed colorectal cancer, all cases. for researchers, “it is necessary to envisage refined screening strategies for this population”. Systematic screening for colon cancer is only recommended only from 50 years. Moreover. if scientists presented their results at the start of the year at the annual conference of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, their study has not yet been validated by their peers. Other studies will also need to validate the hypothesis.