Cycling to work can significantly reduce the risk of early death from illnesses such as cancer and heart disease, according to a new study involving UK workers.
The research found that those who commuted by bike had a longer lifespan and were less likely to require hospital treatment for various illnesses. The study, which is the largest of its kind, tracked 82,000 individuals aged 16 to 74 who reported their commuting methods during the Scottish census. Participants were followed from 2001 to 2018 to assess hospital admissions, drug prescriptions, and mortality rates.
Cycling to work was associated with a 47% lower risk of death from any cause and a 51% lower risk of dying from cancer. It also reduced the likelihood of hospital admissions by 10% and decreased the need for treatment for heart disease by 24%. Additionally, cyclists were 20% less likely to be prescribed psychiatric medications, such as antidepressants, compared to less active commuters.
However, the study also noted a downside: cyclists were twice as likely to be hospitalised due to road traffic accidents compared to those who drove or took the train to work. Of the 1,363 cyclists studied, 83 were admitted to the hospital following a traffic accident.
The research also looked at walking to work, which showed some benefits but not as pronounced as cycling. Published in the medical journal BMJ Public Health, the study was led by Catherine Friel, Dr David Walsh, and Bruce Whyte from the University of Glasgow. They emphasised the need for safer cycling infrastructure to mitigate the increased risk of road traffic casualties.
Currently, less than 5% of people in the UK cycle to work, while 68% use cars, 11% walk, 9% take the train, and 6% use the bus.
