In response to new research published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine, Dr Kotryna Temcinaite, Senior Research Communications Manager at Breast Cancer Now, said:
“One woman is diagnosed with breast cancer in the UK every 10 minutes.
"If nothing changes, this will rise to one woman every eight minutes in the next 10 years, so we urgently need to find new ways to prevent people from developing this devastating disease.
"While many factors can affect how likely someone is to be diagnosed, we already know that being physically active is linked to a lower chance of developing breast cancer.
"By looking at people who may be genetically predisposed to having different physical activity levels, this innovative study further strengthens existing evidence of the importance of reducing the time we spend sitting, and increasing the amount of time we spend moving, to lower breast cancer risk.
“Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting alcohol intake and being as active as possible, can all help reduce the risk of developing the disease.
"This research highlights how vital it is that we support people to start making small, healthy lifestyle changes that can positively impact their health and help lower their risk of breast cancer.
"Anyone seeking information and support can speak to our expert nurses by calling our free confidential Helpline on 0808 800 6000.”
ENDS