Sedentary Living Prompts Disease & Death

Sitting around compromises health of people- even if they meet typical physical activity guidelines, report researchers from the University of Leicester (United Kingdom).  Emma Wilmot and colleagues completed a study that combined the results of 18 studies and included a total of 794,577 subjects.  Analysis of the data revealed that those who sit for long periods have a two fold increase in their risk of diabetes, heart disease and death. Importantly, associations were independent of the amount of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity undertaken, suggesting that even if an individual meets typical physical activity guidelines, their health may still be compromised if they sit for long periods of time throughout the day. Observing that the average adult spends 50-70% of their time sitting, the study authors conclude that: “Sedentary time is associated with an increased risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cardiovascular and all-cause mortality; the strength of the association is most consistent for diabetes.”