It has long been known that exercise isn’t just good for the body and the mind, it’s essential. The benefits of daily physical activity cannot be overstated. No matter how older you are, regular exercise can lead to a healthier, longer, and fuller life.

The benefits exercise holds for Cincinnati seniors are easily recognizable.

A recent comprehensive, globe-spanning study found that exercise, no matter how much or at what the age, body type, or lifestyle, caused noticeable decreases in the risk for women developing breast cancer. While the specific causes for this decrease are unknown, speculation concerning exercise and its effect on hormones and inflammation are considered good possibilities.

Some Facts about Breast Cancer

• The exact causes of breast cancer are, unfortunately, unknown. However, there are several personal risk factors that may lead to an increase in the likelihood of developing breast cancer.
• You family’s medical history or genetic disposition can lead to an increased risk of developing breast cancer.
• Most cases of advanced breast cancer are found in women over the age of 50; however, men can develop breast cancer (though they are about 100 times less likely to).
• Women are so disproportionally affected by breast cancer that gender supersedes familial risk factors: 85% of women who develop breast cancer have no known family history of breast cancer.
• For women in the U.S., aside from lung cancer, breast cancer is the single most destructive, with a higher death rate than any other cancer, and besides skin cancer, is the most commonly diagnosed.
• 1 in 8, or about 12% of women, will develop breast cancer at some point in their lifetime.

The Research Concerning Exercise and Decreased Risk

Studies that spanned from 1987 to 2013 and involved over 4 million women from around the world showed evidence that the more active a woman chooses to be, the more she lowered her chances of developing breast cancer. The most active among those involved in the research were shown to have lowered their risk by a staggering 12 percent.

Regardless of their level of activity, even women who were not as active still saw a decreased risk, and those who were overweight or obese, while benefitting slightly less, saw their risk lowered by 10 percent.

Incorporating More Exercise in Your Daily Life Could Save Your Life

It’s no secret that exercise leads to better health.

In addition to decreasing the risk for serious, life threatening diseases like breast cancer, exercise can help to reduce the impact and severity of common illnesses, chronic diseases, and other commonly felt signs of aging.

Incorporating daily exercise routines can build strength, increase stamina, lift mood, and boost immunity. Basically, exercise can help you lead an independent, positive senior lifestyle you most want.

Decreased mobility and lack of flexibility are among commonly felt signs of aging. Regular exercise improves helps build flexibility and posture which can positively – and noticeably – effect balance, coordination, which can help reduce the risk of falls and fall related injuries. As well, exercise can improve the quality of sleep, has been shown to boost mood and improve self-confidence, and, quite simply, it’s just plain good for the brain.

No matter your age or health, weight or gender, regular exercise can provide profound benefits. Increased stamina and flexibility, better mood, and an active mind are just a few of the changes to look forward to.

As a Cincinnati senior, it’s not difficult to find a health center or senior community that offers facilities or fitness classes tailored to your abilities. And you’ll be glad that you did—even if you’re not worried about your risk for breast cancer.