What You Should Know This April For National Cancer Control Month
April is National Cancer Control Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness about cancer prevention, early detection, and strategies to improve quality of life for those affected. While we often hear about advancements in treatments and screenings, what many people don’t realize is just how powerful exercise and nutrition can be in reducing cancer risk. At TheVFit, we believe prevention starts well before a diagnosis—and one of the strongest defenses you can build starts with how you move, eat, and live each day.
The Link Between Exercise and Cancer Prevention
Research continues to show a strong connection between physical activity and a reduced risk of several common cancers, including breast, prostate, colon, and lung cancer. Regular exercise doesn’t just help you stay in shape—it also plays a crucial role in regulating hormones, supporting immune health, and maintaining a healthy weight, all of which are tied to cancer prevention.
When we talk about cancer, we’re referring to a group of diseases characterized by the uncontrolled division of abnormal cells. While genetics can certainly play a role, lifestyle factors account for an estimated 30–50% of all cancer diagnoses, according to the World Health Organization. That means what you do in your daily life—your movement patterns, eating habits, stress levels, and sleep—can either increase or decrease your risk.
Breast and Prostate Cancer: Exercise Matters More Than You Think
Let’s take a closer look at breast and prostate cancer, two of the most common cancers affecting women and men respectively.
For women, regular physical activity has been shown to reduce the risk of breast cancer by up to 25%. This is largely due to its impact on hormone levels like estrogen and insulin, which, when elevated, are associated with increased cancer risk. Exercise also helps reduce inflammation and strengthen the immune system, both key players in fighting off abnormal cell growth.
For men, prostate cancer risk decreases with higher levels of consistent exercise, especially moderate to vigorous activity. One study found that men who exercised vigorously for at least three hours per week had a 61% lower risk of dying from prostate cancer compared to those who exercised less than one hour per week.
At TheVFit, our CrossFit and personal training programs are designed to deliver exactly the kind of training that supports these outcomes: functional, high-intensity, scalable workouts that strengthen your body and support metabolic health.
Cancer and Body Composition: Why Weight Matters
Maintaining a healthy body composition is one of the most controllable ways to reduce your risk of developing cancer. Obesity is linked to 13 types of cancer, including colorectal, liver, kidney, and pancreatic cancers. Fat tissue doesn’t just sit idle—it produces excess estrogen and inflammatory markers, which can create an environment more favorable for cancer growth.
This doesn’t mean you need to be “skinny”—it means your body should carry an appropriate ratio of lean muscle to fat mass. Our coaches at TheVFit focus on helping members build strength while improving metabolic health and increasing daily activity, which helps create a body less prone to disease and dysfunction.
Nutrition’s Role in Cancer Prevention
What you put on your plate matters just as much as how often you move. Diets high in processed foods, added sugars, and inflammatory fats have been associated with increased cancer risk. In contrast, a nutrient-dense diet rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, whole grains, and healthy fats supports immune function and cellular repair.
Vegetables (like broccoli, cauliflower, and Brussels sprouts), berries, leafy greens, and foods high in antioxidants all contribute to cancer prevention. Limiting alcohol intake is also important; alcohol is a known carcinogen and has been linked to breast, liver, and colorectal cancers.
Exercise Improves Quality of Life for Cancer Survivors
Exercise isn’t just preventative—it also plays a major role in cancer recovery and survivorship. For individuals who have undergone treatment, returning to a consistent and supportive fitness routine can help rebuild strength, reduce fatigue, improve mental health, and restore a sense of control over the body.
Many cancer survivors report feeling “disconnected” from their physical self after treatment. Personal training and group classes can be powerful tools for helping people feel strong, confident, and capable again.
It’s Bigger Than Fitness—It’s About Your Life
This National Cancer Control Month, let it be a reminder that your daily choices matter. Movement isn’t just about aesthetics or performance—it’s a powerful tool to help you live longer, feel better, and reduce the risk of one of the most serious diseases affecting millions every year.
Taking control of your health doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start by building consistent habits: move your body every day, eat food that nourishes you, get enough sleep, manage your stress, and surround yourself with people who support your goals.
Ready to Build a Healthier Routine—In and Out of the Gym?
At TheVFit, we believe fitness goes beyond workouts. We’re a wellness gym because we know progress requires attention to all areas of your life—nutrition, sleep, stress, and yes, even alcohol.
If you’re ready to take the next step, we offer a No Sweat Intro—a free, 1-on-1 sit-down with one of our expert coaches. We’ll talk about your goals, your lifestyle, and create a plan that sets you up for long-term success.
👉 Click HERE to book your No Sweat Intro today.
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