Active against cancer: How to reduce your risk

Did you know that around 40 percent of all cancer cases in Germany are preventable? This astonishing figure highlights the enormous potential of a healthy lifestyle. In particular, regular exercise can play a crucial role. And that’s exactly what the VITAMIN WELL Women's Race Berlin is all about: getting active together, enjoying movement, and doing something good! Discover how small steps can make a big difference for your health!

_{Together, it's even more fun – these four women know it in 2024. | © SCC EVENTS / Sebastian Wells}

Numerous studies show that regular physical activity is a key factor in cancer prevention. For example, the risk of certain types of cancer – such as postmenopausal breast cancer and colorectal cancer – can be reduced by 20 to 30 percent, especially in combination with other healthy lifestyle factors. There is also evidence suggesting that exercise may lower the risk of tumors such as bladder, kidney, stomach, and esophageal cancer.

Exercise Helps – Even During and After Cancer

Physical activity is not only important for prevention—those already diagnosed with cancer can also benefit from targeted exercise. Individually tailored movement therapy can help alleviate treatment side effects such as chronic fatigue and support the recovery process. Experts recommend integrating at least 150 minutes of moderate or 75 minutes of intense exercise into your weekly routine after an adjustment phase. The Berlin Cancer Society (Berliner Krebsgesellschaft e.V.), the charity partner of the VITAMIN WELL Women's Race Berlin, also strongly promotes sports and exercise in its outpatient cancer counseling services. With the help of a sports scientist, tailored exercise programs are developed to meet individual needs.

The Power of a Healthy Lifestyle

In addition to lack of exercise, several other factors can increase cancer risk, including alcohol consumption, obesity, unhealthy diet, red and processed meat, sugary drinks, tobacco use, and UV radiation. These factors underline the importance of a holistic approach to cancer prevention. The German Cancer Research Center emphasizes that 40 percent of cancer cases in Germany can be prevented if the risk factors mentioned are avoided.

Small Steps, Big Impact

Just 30 minutes of daily movement – whether it’s walking, cycling, jogging, or Nordic walking – can have a significant positive impact on your health. Your daily commute might be the perfect opportunity to cycle instead of drive. Even simple choices, like taking the stairs instead of the elevator, contribute to a healthier lifestyle. It’s not about becoming a marathon runner overnight but about developing a love for movement and staying active.

_{Through their participation, these two women actively contributed to prevention in 2024. | © SCC EVENTS / Tilo Wiedensohler}

Stronger Together: The VITAMIN WELL Women's Race Berlin

This idea is at the heart of the VITAMIN WELL Women's Race Berlin: celebrating movement together. Whether you’re an experienced runner or a beginner, every woman is welcome! We run and walk together for ourselves and for a good cause. One euro of the participation fee goes directly to the Berlin Cancer Society’s emergency fund, which provides financial support to women affected by cancer.

Let’s get moving together. Join us and take a powerful stand for an active, healthy life!