A comprehensive study by researchers at the University of Oxford has revealed that daily walking can substantially lower the risk of developing 13 different types of cancer.

The study, which tracked over 85,000 adults in the UK using activity monitors over an average of six years, found that individuals who walked 7,000 steps per day had an 11% reduced risk of cancer compared to those who walked 5,000 steps. Increasing the daily step count to 9,000 steps was associated with a 16% reduction in cancer risk. Beyond 9,000 steps, the benefits plateaued, indicating that moderate increases in daily activity can have significant health impacts.     

Importantly, the study determined that the pace of walking did not significantly influence cancer risk reduction; rather, the total number of steps taken each day was the critical factor. 

This suggests that incorporating more walking into daily routines—such as taking the stairs, walking during breaks, or opting for short strolls—can be an effective strategy for cancer prevention. The findings support existing public health guidelines that advocate for increased physical activity and highlight walking as an accessible form of exercise that can contribute to lowering cancer risk.

Source: Science Alert

https://www.sciencealert.com/walking-daily-linked-to-lower-risk-of-13-cancers-major-study-finds