It is very well known that physical activity is good for overall health. But a new study shows that a chronic lack of physical activity can drastically increase the chance of developing cancer in the bladder and kidneys, and it suggests that engaging in more physical activity may reduce this risk.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) report that, every year, almost 57,000 adults have kidney and renal pelvis cancers in the U.S. Bladder cancer is also widespread. According to the CDC, around 71,000 U.S. individuals developed bladder cancer in 2013, and almost 16,000 people died as a result. 

A study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology examines the link between leading a sedentary lifestyle and the risk of developing kidney or bladder cancer.

The researchers analyzed 160 people with renal (kidney) cancer, 208 bladder cancer patients, and 766 healthy controls.

Physical Inactivity increases kidney and bladder cancer risks by up to 77%

Overall, the authors found "evidence of a positive association between renal and bladder cancer with lifetime recreational physical inactivity." 

Specifically, they found that those who were physically inactive were 77% more likely to develop renal cancer and 73% more likely to develop cancer of the bladder. 

The results of this study will hopefully motivate inactive people to engage in some form of physical activity. You don't have to run marathons to reduce your cancer risk, but you have to do some sort of physical activity daily. 

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