Next week (19-25 February) is Cancer Prevention Action Week and this year’s theme is physical activity.

Organised by the World Cancer Research Fund UK (WCRFUK), the week aims to raise awareness that being active has many health benefits including reducing the risk of some cancers, including breast, colon and endometrial cancer, and encourage people to be more active in their daily lives through the charity’s #MakeYourMove campaign.

Most people in the UK do not currently meet the UK Joint Chief Medical Officers’ national recommendations on physical activity, which is at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity or 75 minutes of vigorous physical activity per week plus muscle strengthening exercises at least twice a week.

This year parliamentarians have been asked to help promote the Cancer Prevention Action Week and the #MakeYourMove campaign and encourage constituents to sign up to be more active for cancer prevention.

Martin Whitfield MSP said: 

“World Cancer Research Fund UK has strong evidence that being physically active can help protect against some forms of cancer, including breast, colon and endometrial.  

“You can become more active by taking part in the #MakeYourMove campaign during this year’s Cancer Prevention Action Week. Sign up now at wcrf-uk.org/CPAW24.”

The WCRF’s website contains a wealth of ideas and suggestions for being more active in your daily life as well as resources to support others get involved. Find out more about the week at www.wcrf-uk.org/CPAW24.