Exploring the link between walking and lung cancer risk: a two-stage Mendelian randomization analysis

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Genetics
• Public Health

Background:

• Previous observational studies suggested a link between physical activity and lung cancer risk.
• Mendelian randomization (MR) studies indicated no association between moderate to vigorous physical activity and lung cancer.
• This study investigated specific walking behaviors and their potential causal relationship with lung cancer risk.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine the potential causal relationship between different walking behaviors and lung cancer risk using Mendelian randomization.
• To identify specific aspects of walking that may influence lung cancer risk.

Main Methods:

• Utilized genetic summary data from UK Biobank for Mendelian randomization analysis.
• Excluded single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) with low F values or confounding factors.
• Conducted sensitivity analyses to ensure the robustness of findings and explored potential mediators.

Main Results:

• Walking 10 or more minutes on more days per week was associated with a reduced risk of lung cancer (OR=0.993).
• A usual walking pace was also significantly associated with lower lung cancer risk (OR=0.998).
• Walking duration alone did not show a significant association with lung cancer risk.

Conclusions:

• Genetically predicted causal relationships exist between specific walking behaviors (frequency and pace) and reduced lung cancer risk.
• Specific physical activities, like frequent and brisk walking, may play a role in mitigating lung cancer risk.
• Potential mediators, such as mood and sedentary behavior, may influence the relationship between walking and lung cancer.