A large-scale international study has revealed the serious health complications caused by inactivity and lack of regular physical activity.
Scientists analyzed data from nearly 2.4 million people across 27 studies worldwide, assessing the relationship between physical activity levels and the development of type 2 diabetes complications and several other diseases. They defined a sedentary lifestyle as not engaging in at least 150 minutes of moderate- or vigorous-intensity physical activity per week, such as brisk walking, cycling, swimming, or running.
Data analysis showed that inactivity and lack of physical activity were associated with the development of several diseases. In sedentary individuals, the incidence of strokes increased by 10.2%, diabetic retinopathy by 9.7%, heart failure by 7.3%, and coronary heart disease by approximately 7%.
The researchers pointed out that these complications are often seen as an inevitable consequence of the disease, but the study's findings confirm that a large part of them can be prevented by increasing physical activity to an achievable level.
The researchers also noted a disparity in the impact of inactivity, as it was found that women and people with a low level of education are more likely to suffer from complications related to a lack of activity. The results also showed a difference in the nature of activity according to the geographical region. In high-income countries, people often get physical activity during leisure time, while in lower-income areas, activity comes mainly from work.
