Commit to get fit!

THE COMMIT TO GET FIT INITIATIVE

CNN and Dr. Gupta, medical correspondent for CNN.com Health, have launched the initiative "Commit to get fit" this July.

The initiative boasts a website with an online pledge and simple guidelines for getting in shape. The website also provides a link to track your exercise/diet program online.

To learn more about "Commit to get fit," visit: http://www.cnn.com/2008/HEALTH/diet.fitness/07/09/commit.pledge/index.html

BUT WHAT DO EXERCISE AND WEIGHT HAVE TO DO WITH CANCER?

From the National Cancer Institute website:

Obesity and physical inactivity may account for 25 to 30 percent of several major cancers—colon, breast (postmenopausal), endometrial, kidney, and cancer of the esophagus .

Preventing weight gain can reduce the risk of many cancers. Experts recommend that people establish habits of healthy eating and physical activity early in life to prevent overweight and obesity. Those who are already overweight or obese are advised to avoid additional weight gain, and to lose weight through a low-calorie diet and exercise. Even a weight loss of only 5 to 10 percent of total weight can provide health benefits.

For more information on the relationship between cancer and weight, visit: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/factsheet/risk/obesity