Glasgow: Researchers have found that sitting for more than 30 minutes at a time may increase the risk of dying from cancer, highlighting the importance of regular movement throughout the day. The study suggests that even short breaks involving light physical activity could help reduce the health risks associated with prolonged inactivity.
The research, led by the University of Glasgow and published in PLOS Medicine, analysed health data from more than 91,000 participants in the UK Biobank. Participants wore activity-tracking devices and were monitored for an average of 12 years to examine how sedentary behaviour affected long-term health outcomes.
The findings showed that remaining seated or inactive for periods longer than 30 minutes was associated with a higher risk of cancer-related death. Researchers also found that every additional hour of uninterrupted sedentary time each day was linked to a 10 per cent increase in the risk of dying from cancer.
The study found that replacing long periods of inactivity with physical movement could significantly lower the risk. One hour of light activity, including household chores or slow walking, was associated with a 12% lower risk of cancer death. Replacing 30 minutes of sitting with moderate exercise such as brisk walking also showed measurable health benefits.
Researchers said the results highlight the importance of reducing continuous sitting rather than focusing only on structured exercise. Simple actions such as standing up regularly, walking around the office or completing light household tasks may help reduce the harmful effects of prolonged inactivity.
The research team noted that the study was observational and cannot prove that prolonged sitting directly causes cancer deaths. Independent experts welcomed the findings but said further research and clinical trials are needed to better understand the relationship between sedentary behaviour and cancer risk.
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