Gardening, doing housework and walking the dog can reduce the risk of developing breast cancer by up to 13%, according to research.

The findings, from the largest ever study of the link between physical activity and the disease, have confirmed that an active lifestyle can help protect against developing cancer.

In 8,000 women examined by researchers on the European Prospective Investigation of Cancer (Epic) those who were the most active were 13% less likely to get breast cancer than those who were inactive. Women who were moderately active run an 8% lower risk, added the study, published in the International Journal of Cancer and funded by Cancer Research UK.

The research shows that even moderate exercise can help, the charity said. "Exercise can include anything that leaves you slightly out of breath like doing the gardening, walking the dog or housework", said Sara Hiom, CRUK's director of information. "Small changes in your daily routine can make all the difference, like taking the stairs instead of the lift or walking some of the way to work, school or the shops, and add up over the course of a week."

Previous research has shown that physical activity could help prevent 3,000 people a year from getting cancer. Although official health advice is to undertake 150 minutes of moderate physical activity a week, only 39% of men and 29% of women do so.

"After an inspirational summer of sport this study is a timely reinforcement of the importance of leading an active life to help reduce your risk of developing breast cancer", said Dr Emma Pennery, clinical director at Breast Cancer Care. "It's great to recognise that being active doesn't have to mean running a marathon or climbing a mountain. Regular exercise as part of everyday life is just as beneficial."