Cut Your Cancer Risk In Half By Doing One Thing…

Imagine slashing your risk of cancer, heart disease, and even premature death—all while commuting to work or taking a leisurely stroll.

A groundbreaking study from Scotland reveals how simple activities can dramatically improve your health and longevity. With benefits like a 51% lower risk of cancer-related death and improved mental health, this research could inspire you to rethink how you move through your day and become an “active commuter.”

Key Takeaways

• Active commuters such as cyclists enjoy a 47% lower risk of death from all causes and a 51% lower risk of cancer-related death, alongside significant cardiovascular and mental health benefits.
• Walkers see a 10% lower risk of cardiovascular-related hospitalization and prescriptions, offering a safe and accessible option for improved health.
• Both cycling and walking can reduce the need for medical care, underscoring their role in promoting long-term physical and mental well-being.

The Health Benefits of “Active Commuting”

In some European countries, up to a quarter of all journeys are made by bicycle. Not so in the U.S., where a miserly one percent of trips are made by bike, with older folks being the least likely to use this form of transport. And that’s a shame, because in older adults, studies show cycling has multiple benefits, including better balance, lower blood pressure, less fat mass and better cholesterol, improved fitness, and better overall quality of life.

Now, new research shows cycling can even do even more. Researchers from Scotland were interested in whether cycling benefits health and life expectancy, specifically in commuters. Some existing studies have already shown that it did, but they were hampered by only including participants within a narrow age range, short follow-up periods, and a small number of health outcomes.

To overcome these shortfalls, the researchers took census data from 82,297 people aged 16–74 living in Scotland in 1991, 2001, and 2011. The census included a question about which mode of travel people use for the longest part, by distance, of their usual commute to work or study.

Cycling and walking were considered ‘active’ forms of commuting, while motor vehicles and trains were ‘inactive.’ Responses were linked to prescriptions and hospital admissions over 18 years, during which 4,276 participants died. Influential factors were taken into consideration, such as age, gender, pre-existing health conditions, socioeconomic factors, and distance to work.

The findings should encourage people to take up cycling, whether commuters or not. Compared with inactive commuters, cyclists enjoyed a:

• 51% lower risk of death from cancer
• 47% lower risk of death from any cause
• 30% lower risk of receiving a cardiovascular disease-related prescription
• 24% lower risk of hospitalization for cardiovascular disease
• 24% lower risk of hospitalization for cancer
• 20% lower risk of receiving a mental health-related prescription
• 10% lower risk of any hospitalization

Cyclists were more likely to be male, younger, shift workers, live in a city, and be less likely to be homeowners or have children. It’s not all good news for cyclists, however, because they were twice as likely as inactive commuters to be admitted to hospital after a road traffic collision. If cycling isn’t for you, there’s always walking, which has been shown to have numerous health benefits.

Walking for Better Heart Health

Those who walked to work or school also enjoyed health benefits. These walkers were more likely to be female, younger, work shifts, commute shorter distances, and live in a city. They were also less likely to have dependent children and tended to have lower household income and educational attainment.

The study found walking to work compared with inactive commuting resulted in a:

• 10% lower risk of hospitalization for cardiovascular disease
• 10% lower risk of receiving a cardiovascular disease-related prescription
• 9% lower risk of hospitalization
• 7% lower risk of receiving a mental health-related prescription

The researchers concluded their paper published in BMJ Public Health in July, by writing: “This study strengthens the evidence that active commuting…can contribute to reduced morbidity and mortality. That cyclist and pedestrian commuting is associated with lower risks of being prescribed medication for poor mental health is an important finding.”

Walking, in particular, is an easy and fun activity for just about anyone.

Summary

A comprehensive study from Scotland has shown that active commuting, such as cycling or walking, can significantly reduce the risk of major health issues and increase life expectancy. Cyclists, in particular, benefit from a 47% lower risk of death from any cause, along with reduced rates of hospitalization for cardiovascular disease and cancer. While walking offers slightly more modest health advantages, it remains a safer option for those concerned about road traffic collisions. The research highlights the profound impact of incorporating physical activity into daily routines, making a strong case for adopting active commuting for better health outcomes.

Frequently Asked Questions

How does cycling improve health?

Cycling significantly reduces the risk of cancer, cardiovascular disease, and premature death by boosting fitness, improving blood pressure, and lowering cholesterol.

Is walking as beneficial as cycling?

While cycling offers more dramatic health benefits, walking still reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease, hospitalization, and mental health-related prescriptions.

What are the risks associated with cycling?

Cyclists are at a higher risk of road traffic collisions, making safety precautions essential.

Can older adults benefit from active commuting?

Yes, studies show older adults who engage in active commuting experience better balance, fitness, and quality of life.

How can I start active commuting safely?

Begin with manageable distances, invest in proper safety gear, and choose routes with minimal traffic for cycling or well-maintained sidewalks for walking.