As little as 30 minutes of exercise -- be it a brisk walk, jogging or even walking up and down stairs -- daily could dramatically reduce one's chance of developing cancer, says a new study.

According to the World Cancer Research Fund, which carried out the study, there is increasing evidence to show that people who keep fit have a lower risk of developing cancer as they grow older.

This may be due to the fact that fit people tend to be slimmer -- studies have shown that obesity increases the risk of cancer, the Daily Express reported.

Dr Rachel Thompson of the Fund said: "There is now very strong evidence that being physically active is important for cancer prevention. Even relatively modest increases in activity levels could prevent thousands of cancer cases.

"You can reduce your cancer risk just by making small changes and this is highlighted by the fact that so many cases could be prevented through something as simple as brisk walking."

Staying fit not only cuts the risk of certain cancers, but can reduce the risk of other common killers like heart disease and stroke, and cut the chance of diabetes.

The Fund is launching 'Walking Together', a campaign to get the public to organise walks with friends and family.

Paul Fretwell, head of fund-raising, said: "We are trying to promote the fact that wherever you live in the UK, you are never that far away from somewhere nice to walk. As well as raising money, this campaign is promoting importance of physical activity for cancer prevention and reminding people how enjoyable walking can be."

http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/fitness/30-mins-of-exercise-daily-can-cut-cancer-risk/articleshow/6468559.cms