Occupational, household and recreational activity don't all help reduce risk of endometrial cancer

Again and again we come across studies that find physical activity decreases risk for various types of cancers, but it is less common to come across a study that compares occupational, household and recreational physical activities.

A team of researchers from the University of Calgary, Canada recently published an article in Cancer Causes and Control finding that in women, only recreational activity, specifically low-intensity activity reduced the risk of endometrial cancer. Furthermore, sedentary occupation increased risk with every 5 hours/week of sedentary activity.

The bottom line is to go out and have fun! Make time for yourself, get your blood flowing and decrease your risk of endometrial cancer and possibly other cancers as well.

Read an abstract of the article here.

Grab your helmet when you hit the slopes

As the ski and snowboarding season approaches, here is something to think about. Globally, it is reported by ski patrols and ER departments that head injuries account for 9% to 19%, and neck injuries for 1% to 4%, of all injuries. Head and neck injuries are the most common cause of severe trauma, death and serious injury among skiers and snowboarders, but the incidence of injury can be reduced.

Researchers from the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at the University of Calgary, Canada performed a literature review with meta-analysis to determine if helmet use affected the incidence of head and neck injuries.  The researchers found that helmets do reduce head injuries and do not increase neck injuries. The article was recently published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal.

The bottom line is clear that helmets should be worn by skiers and snowboarders, regardless of age or experience.

Read an abstract of the article here.