Summary of the University of Hong Kong Study on Walking Speed and Cancer Risk
Here’s a summary of the key findings from the University of Hong Kong (HKUmed) study, based on the provided text:
Key Finding: Walking speed is linked to a lower risk of developing cancer, notably lung cancer. The quality (speed) of walking appears more protective than the quantity (duration/frequency).
Study Details:
* Participants: Over 430,000 individuals from the UK Biobank and a separate study in Hong Kong.
* Methods: Researchers analyzed data using both self-reported walking speed (UK participants) and a timed 6-meter walk test (hong Kong participants).
* Results:
* UK participants who walked faster had a 13% lower overall cancer risk.
* Hong Kong participants who walked faster had a 45% lower overall cancer risk.
* Lung cancer risk was significantly reduced – up to 53% in faster walkers.
* Biological Explanation: Faster walking speed may be linked to:
* Reduced inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, white blood cell count).
* Improved lipid metabolism (total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol).
* Skeletal muscle’s role in regulating inflammatory and metabolic pathways.
Meaning:
* Walking speed is a simple, readily measurable indicator of cancer risk.
* This information can help develop personalized cancer prevention strategies.
* The study reinforces the importance of regular physical activity, highlighting that how you walk (speed) is crucial, not just how much you walk.
Source: The study was published in the journal ‘Wasting and Osteoporosis’.
