Combining smaller waist with staying active can cut our cancer risk

Achieving a balanced combination of exercise and controlling our waistline is far more effective in reducing our risk of cancer than doing just one or the other, according to a study funded by World Cancer Research Fund.
In the world’s first study looking at the effectiveness of combining these measures, we found that only doing one is not enough to lower our risk of cancer. The study, which looked at more than 300,000 people, found that:
- People not meeting World Health Organization (WHO) guidelines on waist circumference are at 11% greater risk, even if they are physically active.
- People not meeting WHO guidelines for physical exercise are at 4% greater risk, even if “abdominally lean” (ie they have a smaller waist).
- Achieving neither means a 15% greater risk.
The study – WHO guidelines on waist circumference and physical activity and their joint association with cancer risk (Lead researcher: Prof Michael Leitzmann, University of Regensburg) – was published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
Prof Michael Leitzman
We're excited about the insights we’ve uncovered regarding the interplay between waist circumference and physical activity in reducing cancer risk. Our findings highlight the value of addressing multiple factors together, showing that both maintaining a recommended waist size and being physically active are critical for cancer prevention. This research reinforces the importance of practical, achievable changes that can have a meaningful impact on health over time.
Dr Helen Croker
This is the first study to examine the independent and combined impact of waist circumference and physical activity levels. The findings underscore the importance of a holistic approach instead of focusing on a single factor to reduce cancer risk. Maintaining a healthy weight and, in particular, having a waist circumference within the recommended level and being physically active, along with eating a healthy diet, are all crucial steps to reduce cancer risk. People can start by making small, sustainable changes like incorporating regular movement into daily routines or choosing healthier food options.
World Cancer Research Fund has been at the forefront of cancer prevention in the UK and globally for decades. We developed Activ8, a free 8-week programme to encourage people to move more, eat well and reduce their cancer risk. Every step is backed by science and brings our Cancer Prevention Recommendations to life.