Moreover, higher daily step counts were associated with lower cancer risk; taking 7,000 steps per day resulted in an 11% lower risk, while 9,000 steps led to a 16% reduction.

A recent study conducted by researchers from the NIH and the University of Oxford, published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, highlights the significant impact of walking on cancer risk reduction.

The research involved over 85,000 adults in the United Kingdom, who wore wrist accelerometers for a week to objectively track their daily activity levels.

Participants, with a median age of 63, provided detailed data on their daily activity, intensity, and step counts, allowing for comprehensive analysis.

After a mean follow-up period of 5.8 years, the study found that 2,633 participants were diagnosed with one of 13 cancer types, including breast and colorectal cancers.

The findings indicate that walking at any pace can help reduce cancer risk, particularly for those who are less physically active.

Specifically, those with the highest levels of daily physical activity had a 26% lower cancer risk compared to their least active counterparts.

To encourage more walking in daily life, practical tips include opting for stairs instead of elevators, walking during phone calls, and parking further away from destinations.