People who take regular exercise can reduce their risk of cancer by as much as 50 per cent, according to research published by the University of Bristol.

Scientists discovered that physical activity significantly reduced the risk of bowel cancer and may help prevent breast, prostrate, lung and endometrial cancer. Those who benefited the most took regular exercise throughout their lifetime.

Professor Ken Fox said: 'Physical activity is a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle and we have found a growing body of evidence that indicates its importance at keeping cancer at bay.' Details: www.bris.ac.uk