Workers who bicycle to their jobs have a 20 percent reduced rate of overall mortality compared to those who drive shares Jesse Slome director of the American Association for Critical Illness Insurance.

"New research finds that cyclists had an 11 percent reduced risk of being diagnosed with cancer which is significant," states Jesse Slome, director of the critical illness insurance organization.  The data is based on a just-released study conducted by the Imperial College London and the University of Cambridge.

"As people start returning to their work, it's a good time to rethink transportation options," Slome adds.  "If you are able to walk or cycle, there are short term and now clearly longer-term health benefits. Businesses and governments should encourage and make it easier for more people to walk and cycle."

The researchers analyzed data based on over 390,000 commuters in England and Wales.  The study used census data the research tracked the same people for up to 25 years, between 1991-2016.

Walking to work was associated with a 7 percent reduced rate in cancer diagnosis. That compared to driving.  Bicycle commuters had an overall 20% reduced rate of (all-cause) mortality. They have a 24% reduced rate of cardiovascular mortality.  Public transport commuters also had a 7% lower rate of incident cancer compared with commuters using a car.

The Association works to educate Americans about reducing and the consequences of surviving critical illnesses such as cancer, heart attacks and strokes.  "Few working age adults still understand that having a nominal cancer or ci plan makes enormous sense," the critical illness insurance expert notes.  

The American Association for Critical Illness Insurance advocates for the importance of planning and supports insurance professionals who market these products.  For instant critical illness insurance rates, visit the Association's website.