Aim Inadequate physical activity increases risk of specific cancers. This study aimed to calculate the Population Attributable Fraction (PAF) of inadequate physical activity and estimate cancer burden due to this exposure among adults in Ireland from 2011-2015. Methods A literature review identified relative risks for inadequate physical activity and cancer. Prevalence of this exposure in Ireland was estimated using a nationally representative survey. The PAF was calculated and applied to Irish cancer incidence and mortality data (2011-2015). Results Inadequate physical activity in Ireland resulted in approximately 1,500 cancer cases (5% of total) and 500 deaths (6% of total) in specific cancer sites (colorectal, breast, and endometrial) from 2011-2015. Women were disproportionately affected. Conclusion Given the harm due to inadequate physical activity, urgent actions are needed to inform the public and to strengthen policy and strategy in Ireland to address this problem.
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