Almost a third of UK adults unaware that regular exercise reduces bowel cancer risk
Monday 2 March 2026
Almost a third of adults in the UK (32%) don’t know that regular exercise can reduce your risk of developing bowel cancer, a YouGov poll commissioned by Bowel Cancer UK has found.
Staying physically active – taking part in at least 150 minutes of moderate intensity exercise such as fast walking, cycling or swimming every week – can lower your risk of bowel cancer by around 20%.
However, only around six in 10 adults are reaching this target on average, leaving too many people less active than they could be.
Bowel Cancer UK have shared the findings of the poll as it launches its latest fundraising challenge, ActiveApril, which encourages people to get active every day in April to raise vital funds for the charity.
The ActiveApril campaign is being supported by the broadcaster and runner Adele Roberts, who was diagnosed with bowel cancer in October 2021 aged 42.
Adele has since been declared cancer-free and achieved a Guinness World Record in 2023 for being the fastest woman to complete the London Marathon with a stoma.
Adele says: “Being active is so important. I took part in the ActiveApril campaign a few years ago and it’s a great way to start exercising, have fun and raise money for a good cause.
“While I love running myself, a brisk walk, dance class or bike ride are all amazing ways to get more active this month and improve your physical and mental health.
“I’m proud to support the ActiveApril campaign and encourage everyone to sign up to the challenge.”
Luke Squires, Director of Fundraising at Bowel Cancer UK, said: “Bowel cancer is the UK’s fourth most common cancer and its second biggest cancer killer. One of the ways we can prevent ourselves from developing bowel cancer is by taking part in regular exercise.
“This April, we’re encouraging people to do something active every day to raise vital funds for Bowel Cancer UK. Every pound raised will help us continue to raise awareness of the disease and its symptoms, provide expert information and support to patients and their families, fund vital research, and campaign for early diagnosis and access to best treatment and care.
“Whether you challenge yourself to reach a fitness goal or get active in your own way, every movement you make in ActiveApril will bring us closer to a future where nobody dies of bowel cancer.”
Sign up to ActiveApril and receive your welcome pack and branded sweatband on your first donation.
