Claim: Walking 7,000 Steps Daily May Reduce Cancer Risk, Says Oxford Study

 

A new study by researchers at Oxford University suggests that walking at least 7,000 steps per day can significantly reduce the risk of developing 13 types of cancer. The study involved more than 85,000 participants and revealed strong correlations between daily physical activity and cancer prevention.

The researchers concluded that individuals who consistently walked more had a lower risk of developing cancers related to the breast, colon, liver, bladder, kidney, and lung. The cancer risk was found to reduce by 11% for those walking 7,000 steps daily. Walking 9,000 steps further reduced the risk of fatal cancer by 30%.

India’s Walking Average Lower Than Global Standards

While the global average of daily steps varies by country, the average Indian walks only 4,872 steps daily, ranking lower than most Western countries. For comparison:

• UK: 6,633 steps
• Poland: 6,504 steps
• Sweden: 6,461 steps
• Finland: 6,346 steps
• USA: 5,396 steps
• India: 4,872 steps

In the study, Japanese participants walked the most, averaging 7,168 steps daily, while American and Indian participants walked the least.

What Should You Do Daily to Reduce Cancer Risk?

 Walk at least 7,000–9,000 steps
Maintain a high-fiber diet
 Include fruits and vegetables
 Stay physically active
 Manage weight and avoid sedentary habits

What to Avoid

 Sugary drinks and excessive red meat
 Smoking and alcohol
 Fast food and high-processed items
 Prolonged sitting without activity