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As anyone who has dashed after a departing bus, lugged hefty shopping bags up flights of stairs, or played high-energy games with children can attest, short bursts of vigorous activity leave us winded. These instances, which many might regard as minor inconveniences or part of daily life, could have significant implications for our health.
Recent research suggests these bouts of huffing and puffing may play a crucial role in cancer prevention. And the good news is, you don't need to be a gym buff to reap these benefits...
A study conducted by the University of Sydney in Australia and published in JAMA Oncology[1] reveals that four-and-a-half minutes of vigorous physical activity split into approximately one-minute bursts throughout the day can decrease overall cancer risk by up to 18%, and the risk of certain cancers linked to physical activity by up to 32%.
This includes cancer types such as liver, lung, kidney, gastric cardia (a type of stomach cancer), endometrial, myeloid leukaemia, myeloma, colorectal, head and neck, bladder, breast, and esophageal adenocarcinoma.
The investigators have coined a term for these vigorous intermittent activities: "VILPA", short for vigorous intermittent lifestyle physical activity. The scope of VILPA ranges from vigorous housework or gardening, to carrying heavy shopping bags around the supermarket, or bursts of power walking.
The advent of wearable technology has allowed scientists to explore the health impacts of our daily routines more closely. Lead author, Professor Emmanuel Stamatakis of the Charles Perkins Centre, University of Sydney, elaborated, "It's quite remarkable to see that upping the intensity of daily tasks for as little as four to five minutes a day, done in short bursts of around one minute each, is linked to an overall reduction in cancer risk."
He further added, "VILPA is a bit like applying the principles of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) to your everyday life."
The study analysed data from wearable devices worn by over 22,000 non-exercising individuals, with the participant's clinical health records monitored for approximately seven years. It was found that even 3.5 minutes of daily VILPA can result in up to an 18% reduction in cancer incidence, while 4.5 minutes can lead to a 32% decrease in the risk of cancers linked to physical activity.
While this study doesn't establish a direct cause-and-effect relationship, researchers believe that VILPA's link with cardio-respiratory fitness, insulin sensitivity, and chronic inflammation could contribute to a lower risk of cancer.
"It appears that VILPA may be a promising cost-free recommendation for lowering cancer risk in people who find structured exercise difficult or unappealing," said Prof Stamatakis. He believes that the potential of wearable technology in tracking physical activity and understanding unexplored aspects of our lives in relation to our long-term health is "enormous."
In the hustle and bustle of everyday life, it's easy to overlook the simple, yet profound, power of our daily actions. This groundbreaking research paints a vivid picture of the potent health benefits that could be lurking within your everyday routines. So the next time you're sprinting to catch the bus, power-walking around the supermarket, or playing high-energy games with the kids, take a moment to appreciate the strength of your body. Each huff, each puff, each sweat-inducing task isn't just a part of life — it could be a building block in your personal defence against cancer.
The beauty of this finding lies in its accessibility — you don't need a gym membership, fancy equipment, or even extra time out of your day. Your journey to a healthier, potentially longer life could start right here, right now, in the middle of your ordinary day. The secret lies in seizing these opportunities and transforming them into health-boosting moments. The future is in your hands, and every step, every lift, every dash might just be bringing you closer to a healthier tomorrow.
1. What does VILPA stand for?
VILPA stands for Vigorous Intermittent Lifestyle Physical Activity. It refers to very short bursts of vigorous activity performed during daily routines.
2. How much VILPA do I need to reduce my cancer risk?
According to the study, a total of just 4.5 minutes of vigorous activity split into approximately one-minute bursts throughout the day could potentially reduce the overall risk of cancer by up to 18%, and the risk of some cancers linked to physical activity by up to 32%.
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3. What activities qualify as VILPA?
VILPA can include vigorous housework, carrying heavy shopping around the supermarket, bursts of power walking, or playing high-energy games with children.
4. Do I need to exercise regularly to benefit from VILPA?
No, the research indicates that even individuals who do not engage in regular, structured exercise can potentially benefit from incorporating VILPA into their daily routine.
5. Does VILPA replace regular exercise?
While VILPA is beneficial, it should not be considered a replacement for regular exercise. Both have unique health benefits, and a combination of structured exercise and VILPA may yield the best results.
6. Can VILPA reduce the risk of all types of cancer?
The study found VILPA to be particularly effective against cancers that are known to be associated with physical activity, including liver, lung, kidney, gastric cardia, endometrial, myeloid leukaemia, myeloma, colorectal, head and neck, bladder, breast and esophageal adenocarcinoma. However, more research is needed to explore the effects of VILPA on other types of cancer.
This article is for general information only and is not intended to treat or diagnose medical conditions. If in doubt please check with your GP first.
References:
[1] https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaoncology/fullarticle/2807734