A study of more than 70,000 postmenopausal women over 17 years shows that seven hours of walking per week reduces the risk of developing breast cancer by 14%.
Simple, moderate and regular physical activity is as effective against cancer as intensive sport. In postmenopausal women, walking for an hour a day decreases the risk of breast cancer, according to a study published in the journal Cancer Epidemiology, Biomarkers & Prevention. Further proof that a healthy lifestyle helps you stay healthy.
A large-scale study
More than 73,000 women between 50 and 74 were followed for 17 years. They filled out questionnaires every two years on their state of health and their activity. Among the questions: their physical activity, the practice of an activity such as walking, swimming or aerobics, but also the time spent in front of the television or reading a book. A large-scale study with encouraging results for a population exposed to the risk of breast cancer.
Walk 7 hours a week
First surprising result of the study: for many women, walking was the only recreational activity. This way of life pays off. Postmenopausal women who walk seven hours a week have a 14% reduced risk of developing breast cancer. Walking is a healthy pastime after 50. The report also states that more dynamic physical activity further reduces the risk of cancer. According to’American Cancer Society, this is the first time that a reduced risk of cancer has been directly linked to the practice of walking.
Recommendations to apply
The World Health Organization recommends walking 30 minutes five times a week. The association Breakthrough Breast Cancer also reports that 30 minutes of moderate activity each day reduces the risk of developing breast cancer by 20%. However, only one in six French people occasionally practice physical activity, and as many are members of a sports club. The challenge is to globally and sustainably change the way of life in our societies.
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