Short, brisk daily walk cuts risk of early death

Short, brisk daily walk cuts risk of early death


Would you invest about 11 minutes a day to reduce the risk of an early death?

It’s no longer an abstract question, now that researchers in England have determined that a brisk, daily walk substantially reduces the risks posed by a host of diseases. Scientists at the University of Cambridge went searching for answers about the amount of exercise needed to reduce the risk of premature death and some chronic diseases.

After reviewing the results of 196 peer-reviewed scientific articles involving more than 30 million study participants, they found a little effort can deliver a lot of benefits. Seventy-five minutes of moderate-intensity activity a week delivers a 23% lower risk of early death. It also reduced the risks of cardiovascular disease and cancer by 17% and 7%, respectively. For some specific cancers, the risk reduction was even greater.

Overall, the researchers found a startling figure: Up to 1 in 10 early deaths could be prevented with 75 minutes of exercise a week. Three percent of cancer cases and 5% of cardiovascular problems also could be avoided.

For those with a little more time, the benefits are even greater. At 150 minutes of moderate exercise a week, 16% of early deaths would be prevented and the percentage of cancer and cardiovascular cases that are prevented roughly doubles.

Experts also note that moderate-intensity exercise doesn’t have to involve running or sports. It can also be about changing habits: Consider walking or biking to work. Play actively with children or grandchildren. After all, activities that are enjoyable and fit easily into daily routines are more likely to become a healthy habit.

 

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