The Cooper Institute Research Reveals Men’s Fitness at Midlife Reduces Risk of Cancer, Cardiovascula

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10/07/2015

Study published in JAMA Oncology highlights importance of fitness in men

DALLAS – October 7, 2015 – The Cooper Institute’s recent findings from the Cooper Center Longitudinal Study, which is based on data from Cooper Clinic in Dallas, showed a relationship between men’s fitness at midlife and a lower risk of certain cancer, cancer mortality and cardiovascular mortality. 

According to the new study, men who were very fit in middle age were 32 percent less likely to die from cancer after being diagnosed after age 65 than men who weren’t fit in midlife. Men who were very fit at age 50 had a 55 percent lower risk of lung cancer and a 44 percent reduced risk of colorectal cancer compared to men who weren’t fit at 50.

The average “midlife” age of the men studied is mid to late 40s. Each participant in the study was observed over the course of 20 years or so. Data was collected initially at midlife and then later in life using Medicare information.

Additionally, of the men who were eventually diagnosed with lung, prostate and colorectal cancer by age 65 or older, being very fit in midlife was associated with a 32 percent reduced risk of cancer-related death and a 68 percent lower risk of cardiovascular death compared to men who had low fitness in midlife.

Laura DeFina, MD, President and CEO of The Cooper Institute, notes that this study focuses on cardiorespiratory fitness which was measured with a treadmill stress test. “Fitness is a marker of habitual physical activity and is more reliable than self-reported physical activity,” she says. “The Cooper Institute is hopeful that this data will encourage physicians to focus more on fitness assessments and preventive medicine.”

About Cooper Institute

The Cooper Institute is dedicated to promoting life-long health and wellness worldwide through research and education. Founded by Kenneth H. Cooper, MD, MPH, The Cooper Institute translates the latest scientific findings into proactive solutions that improve population health. Key areas of focus are research, adult education and youth programs. Through these initiatives, The Cooper Institute helps people lead better, longer lives now and Well. Into the Future. To learn more, visit CooperInstitute.org

About Cooper Aerobics

Cooper Aerobics, pioneered by the "father of aerobics," Kenneth H. Cooper, MD, MPH, celebrates 45 years of health and wellness in 2015 along with a commemorative event on November 5, 2015 at The Bush Institute in Dallas. Dr. Cooper introduced the concept of preventive medicine in 1970 and continues to be an international authority on how to live a longer, healthier life. Through the array of services Cooper offers with its seven health and wellness companies and The Cooper Institute®, millions have been inspired to make good health a habit. For more information, call 866.906.2667 (COOP) or visit cooperaerobics.com.