Cycling commuters have lower rates of heart disease and cancer

Conclusion This prospective cohort study has established that active methods of commuting to work, either walking or cycling, are associated with reduced risk of death, cardiovascular disease and cancer. Overall this was a well-designed study based on a large collection of real-world data from the UK. The researchers controlled for key socioeconomic and lifestyle confounders. Although this is an observational study, confidence in the link is improved by its consistency with existing knowledge and research on the benefits of physical activity and the graded response in the results. Participants from the UK Biobank who were in paid employment were included and are thought to be reasonably representative of the middle-aged general population. Similar links in younger adults can't be assumed. A limitation of this study is that the participants volunteered to take part and therefore may be healthier than the rest of the population. However, this bias is unlikely to undermine the findings. It makes sense that those who have a more active lifestyle would reduce their risk of cardiovascular disease or certain types of cancer. If you are finding it hard to fit the recommended levels of physical activity into your daily routine then using a bike to commute, if possible, could be an ideal solution. Read more about getting started with cycling. Links To The Headlines Cycling to work can cut cancer and heart disease, says study. BBC News, April 20 2017 Cycling to work ‘could halve r...
Source: NHS News Feed - Category: Consumer Health News Tags: Lifestyle/exercise Cancer Heart/lungs Source Type: news