Thekabarnews.com—A new study suggests that sitting or lying down for more than 30 minutes at a time while awake may increase the risk of dying from cancer. The study adds to a growing body of evidence. It shows that long periods of sedentary behavior can have serious effects on health.

A study of more than 90,000 adults followed for about 10 years found that those who regularly sat for more than 30 minutes at a time were more likely to die from cancer. In contrast, those who frequently interrupted their sitting faced a lower risk.

The findings also indicate that the risk increases with each hour of continuous inactivity. This highlights the possible health consequences of long sedentary periods.

Fortunately, scientists have discovered a solution: breaking up lengthy stretches of sitting with mild physical activity for a brief time. For instance, this could include standing up and then walking for 60 seconds.

The research suggests that even low-impact daily movements can provide substantial health benefits. This contrasts with previous health recommendations that often stressed strenuous activity.

Routine tasks like sweeping the yard, washing clothes and dishes, or taking a light walk on the sidewalk can decrease the risk of mortality from cancer.

The lead author, dr. Frederick Ho, said the findings highlighted the importance of reducing prolonged sitting during the day. This is more important rather than focusing only on structured exercise.

“Public health recommendations today focus largely on moderate- to vigorous-intensity physical activity, but people should not dismiss the value of light movement for long-term health,” he said.

“Our results suggest that light movement should not be ignored,” dr. Ho added.

The study found that people who replaced one hour of daily sedentary behavior with light physical activity had a 12 percent lower risk of dying from cancer.

The researchers stressed that the study found an association and not that sitting longer causes cancer deaths.

More research is needed to better understand the biological mechanisms involved. In addition, researchers want to know how other lifestyle factors may play a role in the relationship they observed.

As people spend more time working at desks, commuting or using digital devices, health experts have increasingly warned that sedentary lifestyles are becoming more common.

Though regular exercise remains key, reducing the amount of time spent sitting without breaks during the day may provide added health benefits.

The results support a growing body of research that suggests movement doesn’t have to be intense exercise to improve health outcomes.

Instead, short walks, standing more often, or light housework can help counter some of the dangers of sitting too long.

The researchers call on people to build simple habits into their daily routine to encourage regular movement. This step is important as sedentary behavior becomes a global phenomenon.

Even short breaks from prolonged sitting may be important for overall health. They may reduce the risk of serious illnesses, such as cancer.