Does Ultra Distance Running Cause Colon Cancer?

In this episode, Fitz Koehler and Medical Oncologist Dr. Timothy Cannon, specializing in gastrointestinal malignancies at the Inova Schar Cancer Institute, unpack his research on endurance runners and colon health. His study revealed surprisingly high rates of precancerous polyps and advanced adenomas in long-distance athletes. Together, they explore possible explanations, the role of the microbiome, how nutrition may factor in, and where more research is urgently needed. Key takeaways: Keep running — regular exercise remains one of the strongest protectors against cancer. Don’t dismiss warning signs — blood or persistent GI issues should never be ignored. Get checked. Colonoscopy is the gold standard — screening starts at 45, and early detection/removal of polyps can prevent cancer altogether. This conversation is a wake-up call for runners everywhere: your training builds health, but screening saves lives. Thanks for keeping The Fitzness Show in the top 3% of all podcasts worldwide. Please subscribe, share, and leave a review.  Order signed copies of the Healthy Cancer Comeback Series books at Fitzness.com - on sale now! Join the Hottie Body Fitzness Challenge group on Facebook! Visit Fitzness.com for referenced content like the Exact Formula for Weight Loss, free workout videos, Fixing Your Life with Fitzness, books, and more.