Walking Reduces Women's Breast Cancer Risk by 10%, Study Finds

Physical Activity is Good for Our Health

Engaging in higher levels of physical activity, such as walking, can reduce a woman's risk of developing breast cancer before menopause by up to 10%, according to a study. The research, conducted by The Institute of Cancer Research in London, adds to the growing body of evidence that shows the benefits of being physically active. However, further research is needed to fully understand the biological link between physical activity and breast cancer risk reduction.

Thousands of Women Diagnosed with Breast Cancer Each Year

Every year, around 55,400 women in the UK are diagnosed with breast cancer, resulting in 11,500 deaths. Although the disease is more common in older women, approximately 5,000 cases are detected in women aged 45 or younger annually. Risk factors for breast cancer include age, family history, obesity, alcohol consumption, and previous diagnosis of the disease.

Walking 6.5 Hours a Week Can Reduce Risk by 30%

Previous research has shown that walking for around 6.5 hours per week can decrease the risk of breast cancer by up to 30%. The latest study, published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology, analyzed data from 19 studies involving over 547,000 women. The results revealed that women in the top 10% for physical activity were 10% less likely to develop breast cancer before menopause compared to those in the bottom 10%.

Urgent Need for Prevention Strategies

Dr. Simon Vincent, from the charity Breast Cancer Now, emphasized the importance of finding new ways to prevent breast cancer, particularly in younger women who are often diagnosed at a later stage. While it is not possible to predict who will develop breast cancer, making small, healthy lifestyle changes can help reduce the risk. This research highlights the need for support and guidance to encourage women to adopt healthier habits that can positively impact their health.