Heart disease and cancer risk 'almost halved' by cycling to work

Results from a UK study suggest that those who cycle to work reduce their risk of heart disease and cancer by almost half.

The University of Glasgow, who studied by than 250,000 over five years, found that commuters that cycle have a 45% lower risk of developing cancer compared to people who drive or use public transport.

There is also a 46% lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

The conclusion of the research is that cyclists have a 41% lower risk of premature death from any cause.

Dr Jason Gill, from the Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, said: "Cycling all or part of the way to work was associated with substantially lower risk of adverse health outcomes.

Walk was found to have benefits, but not at the same level as those who cycle.

Dr Carlos Celis-Morale, from the University of Glasgow, said: "Walking to work was associated with lower risk of heart disease, but unlike cycling was not associated with a significantly lower risk of cancer or overall death.

"This may be because walkers commuted shorter distances than cyclists, typically six miles per week, compared with 30 miles per week, and walking is generally a lower intensity of exercise than cycling."