Cancers of the Esophagus and Stomach: Potential Mechanisms Behind the Beneficial Influence of Physical Activity

Background: The increasing incidence of esophageal and stomach cancers has become a significant public health concern, with unspecified causal factors playing a role in this trend. Physical activity (PA) is recognized as a protective factor against various chronic diseases, including certain types of cancer. This study examines the potential mechanisms through which physical activity may influence the risk of esophageal and stomach cancers. Methods: The study investigates the relationship between physical activity and the risk of esophageal and stomach cancers, reviewing relevant studies published up to ۲۰۲۳. Additionally, the methodological quality of the included studies was assessed, considering factors that could influence the strength of the association. Results: This review identified ۱۵ studies, including ۷ cohort studies and ۸ case-control studies, with a total of ۹۸۴ esophageal cancer cases and ۷,۰۸۷ stomach cancer cases. The results indicated a statistically significant protective effect of physical activity, with individuals engaging in the highest levels of physical activity being ۲۷% less likely to develop esophageal cancer (risk ratio [RR] = ۰.۷۳, ۹۵% confidence interval [CI] = ۰.۵۶ to ۰.۹۷) compared to their less active counterparts. Similarly, the risk of stomach cancer among the most physically active individuals was ۱۳% lower (RR = ۰.۸۷, ۹۵% CI = ۰.۷۸ to ۰.۹۷). These findings suggest that increased physical activity may contribute to reducing the incidence of both cancers through various biological mechanisms, including enhanced immune function, reduced inflammation, and improved metabolic health. Conclusion: The findings support the hypothesis that physical activity is associated with a decreased risk of esophageal and stomach cancers. Given the rising rates of these malignancies worldwide, promoting regular physical activity could act as an effective public health strategy for cancer risk reduction. Future research should continue to explore the underlying biological mechanisms and establish clear guidelines for physical activity levels that could optimize cancer prevention efforts. Keywords: Esophageal cancer, Gastric cancer, Meta-analysis, Risk reduction, Chronic disease prevention.

کلیدواژه ها:

Esophageal cancer ، Gastric cancer ، Meta-analysis ، Risk reduction ، Chronic disease prevention