Study: Brisk Walking Helps Reduce Risk of Breast Cancer

Women of all ages can reduce their risk of breast cancer by exercising moderately but regularly, according to researchers at the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center.

While previous studies have shown that regular exercise can protect against breast cancer, this new study -- involving more than 74,000 women -- shows it is never too late to start.

Regular brisk walking, swimming, bicycling or other exercise lowers the chance of breast cancer by an average 18 percent for women at all risk levels — including those who have taken hormone-replacement therapy for symptoms of menopause, the researchers reported in the Journal of the American Medical Association.

"You can do whatever you like, whatever fits in with your lifestyle. Most women in their middle and older years pick walking," said lead researcher Dr. Anne McTiernan.

The study adds to the growing body of evidence that exercise -- even if begun late in life and not overly strenuous -- can yield significant health benefits.

"We thought it important to determine if moderate-intensity physical activities, such as walking, biking outdoors or easy swimming, when initiated later in life, can reduce the risk of breast cancer since these types of activities are achievable for most women," McTiernan said.

Women who reported engaging in 1.25 to 2.50 hours of moderate exercise weekly had an 18 percent lower risk of breast cancer than inactive women.

In McTiernan's study, more intense or frequent exercise produced little additional benefit.

Other Sources: Journal of the American Medical Association