The Effect of Physical Activity on Colorectal Polyps

Background: The results of previous epidemiologic studies showed that dietary and life style factors are associated with colon polyps. Despite the high prevalence of colon polyps, little is known about its risk factors in Korean adults. The aim of this study was to assess the relationship between physical activity and the presence of colorectal polyps. Methods: In 859 subjects, rectosigmoidoscopy was performed at Ulsan University Hospital Health Promotion Center from January 2002 to October 2002. Drinking, smoking and other confounding factors were assessed by self-administered questionnaire in 161 subjects with colon polyps and 698 controls. Results: Among the total of 859 cases the prevalence of colorectal adenomatous polyps was 18.7%. After adjusting for age, sex, physical activity, obesity, calcium and total energy intake,using multiple logistic regression, decreasing risk of colorectal polyps were observed with increasing level of physical activities. The odds ratio for 3 to 4 hours per week exercise group was 0.460 (CI=0.26 2-0.089). The frequency and intensity of exercise also had an inverse association with colon polyps (4-5 times/week group: OR=0.428, CI=0.220-0.832. vigorous exercise group: OR=0.454, CI=0.298-0.693). Conclusion: Physical activities were inversely associated with colorectal polyps in Korean adults.