New research from the University of Oxford suggests that walking 9,000 steps daily could reduce cancer risk by up to 26 per cent.
The study found that light-to-moderate exercise helps prevent more than 10 different types of cancer.
Unlike previous research focused on high-intensity workouts, this study highlights the benefits of everyday movement for cancer prevention.
Scientists analysed health data from over 85,000 UK adults using wrist accelerometers to track their physical activity.
Stepping intensity did not significantly impact cancer risk in the study
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The Oxford team collected information on total daily activity, intensity levels and step count over one week.
They then compared these measurements with the occurrence of 13 different cancer types, including breast and colorectal cancer.
During the follow-up period of approximately five years, about 2,600 participants developed cancer.
The results were striking. Those with the highest levels of daily physical activity had a 26 per cent lower cancer risk compared to the least active participants.
Researchers found that cancer risk decreased for those taking 7,000 steps per day compared to 5,000 steps.
This benefit continued to increase up to about 9,000 steps daily, where the dose-response relationship began to plateau. These risk reductions remained even after adjusting for demographic factors, lifestyle, BMI and other health conditions.
The research also revealed that stepping intensity did not significantly impact cancer risk after adjusting for step count.
The findings indicate that cancer prevention benefits are accessible through everyday activities without needing to focus on walking speed.
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Any level of physical activity appears to contribute to lower cancer risk
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"Our research highlights the importance of all forms of movement. Whether it is increasing daily steps, engaging in light activity, or incorporating moderate-to-vigorous exercise any level of physical activity appears to contribute to lower cancer risk," said study co-author Aiden Doherty.
The Oxford study adds to growing evidence that physical activity plays a crucial role in cancer prevention.
The findings suggest that even sedentary individuals can significantly lower their cancer risk by simply incorporating more walking into their daily routine.
This is particularly encouraging as it makes cancer prevention accessible to most people through simple lifestyle changes.
For those looking to reduce their cancer risk, aiming for around 9,000 steps per day appears to offer optimal benefits.
