Studies have shown that frequent, endurance-oriented exercise is particularly beneficial in reducing breast cancer risk.

Women who exercise vigorously for 30 to 60 minutes daily are less likely to develop breast cancer than those who aren't so physically active, German Cancer Aid says.

Coinciding with Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the Bonn-based non-governmental organisation said studies had shown that frequent, endurance-oriented exercise was particularly beneficial.

People who exercise regularly, it noted, boost their metabolism and strengthen their immune system, thereby helping their body to repair itself.

What is more, exercise inhibits inflammation suspected of triggering cancer.

Physically active women are also less likely to be overweight - this, too, helping to prevent breast cancer, German Cancer Aid said.

It added that people who were physically active generally tended to have a healthier lifestyle than those who didn't: They ate more balanced meals, were more often non-smokers, consumed less alcohol and spent more time outdoors.

Copyright AAP 2014.