Daijiworld Media Network - Newcastle

Newcastle, Jan 4: Short bursts of energetic physical activity lasting just 10 minutes a day may not only improve fitness but also help combat bowel cancer, also known as colorectal cancer, a new study has found.

Researchers from Newcastle University said brief, high-intensity exercise can trigger rapid molecular changes in the bloodstream that suppress bowel cancer growth and enhance DNA repair. The findings, published in the International Journal of Cancer, showed that exercise increases levels of specific molecules in the blood linked to reduced inflammation, better blood vessel function and improved metabolism.

When these exercise-induced molecules were tested on bowel cancer cells in laboratory conditions, the activity of more than 1,300 genes was altered, including genes involved in DNA repair, energy production and tumour growth. Scientists observed that exercise boosted genes supporting mitochondrial energy metabolism, helping cells use oxygen more efficiently, while switching off genes linked to rapid cancer cell growth.

The study involved 30 overweight or obese volunteers aged between 50 and 78, who completed a single 10-minute intense cycling session. Blood samples collected afterwards revealed increases in 13 proteins, including interleukin-6 (IL-6), known to play a role in DNA repair.

Dr Sam Orange, senior lecturer in clinical exercise physiology at Newcastle University and lead author of the study, said the findings highlight how even a single bout of exercise can send powerful biological signals through the bloodstream that directly influence cancer-related genes.

Researchers said the results underline the potential of short, regular exercise in creating a less favourable environment for cancer cells, reinforcing that even small amounts of physical activity can have meaningful health benefits.