Cycling Linked To Lower Risk Of Early Death
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17 July 2024
Cyclists had a 47% reduced risk of early death and a 10% lower risk of hospitalization for any reason than commuters who drive or take the train, a new study revealed
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Over 82,000 UK residents, whose ages ranged from 16 to 74 at the beginning of the study, were monitored for 18 years
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During the census, individuals disclosed the primary means of transportation they utilised for commuting. Their prescriptions and hospital stays were also examined
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Interestingly, walking or cycling was considered "active" travel. Every other mode of transportation, such as driving, was considered "inactive"
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Cycling was linked to a 51% lower chance of dying from cancer, a 24% lower risk of heart disease, even after understanding factors like age and underlying medical conditions
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However, after a traffic accident, cycle commuters had a twice as high chance of being hospitalized compared to "inactive" commuters
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Pedestrian commuting was linked to a 7% reduced chance of receiving a prescription for mental health medication and an 11% lower risk of hospital admission for any reason
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The study has limitations because the census results only cover a limited period and the research's prescription records only went back to 2009
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"That cyclist and pedestrian commuting is associated with lower risks of being prescribed medication for poor mental health is an important finding," the researchers said
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