The Hidden Health Hazards of a Sedentary Lifestyle
Sedentary lifestyles are sometimes neglected, yet their effects on health can be serious. Prolonged sitting or inactivity raises the risk of a variety of health issues. According to studies, persons who sit for more than 8 hours each day are 90% more likely to acquire cardiovascular disease. Additionally, sedentary behaviour has been related to obesity, type 2 diabetes, and some malignancies. According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), inactivity is a major risk factor for mortality, accounting for 3.2 million deaths per year.
Prolonged inactivity damages muscles, lowers metabolism, and harms mental health. According to research conducted by the American Psychological Association, those who participate in minimal physical exercise had greater rates of anxiety and sadness. Furthermore, sedentary habits can lead to musculoskeletal problems such as back discomfort and bad posture.
Simple modifications, such as taking brief walking breaks or standing at work, can mitigate the detrimental consequences. The CDC advises at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise every week to be healthy.
In a fast-paced world when screen time is unavoidable, prioritising activity is critical to maintaining long-term health.
References:
- World Health Organization, Physical Inactivity Fact Sheet, 2021.
- American Psychological Association, Sedentary Lifestyle and Mental Health, 2020.
- Centres for Disease Control and Prevention, Physical Activity Guidelines, 2021.
