- Scientists found a link between aging muscle and cancer risk.
- Older muscle releases fewer tiny particles cells use.
- These particles help body cells talk and send signals.
- Particles from old muscles have less of one molecule.
- Strong muscles send more helpful particles to other cells.
- Weak muscles change signals and may help tumors grow.
- Doctors see more advanced cancer when people lose muscle.
- Keeping muscle strong helps protect against cancer and illness.
Difficult words
- particle — very small piece that cells useParticles
- molecule — very small chemical in a cell or body
- signal — message a cell sends to other cellssignals
- tumor — a group of cells that may grow too muchtumors
- protect — to keep someone safe from harm or disease
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Do you exercise to keep muscles strong?
- Have you seen someone lose muscle when they were sick?
- How do you keep your muscles strong?
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