Press Release: Study Indicates Active Lifestyle Could Extend Life Expectancy by Five Years
A recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine reveals that increasing daily physical activity to levels seen in the top 25% of the U.S. population could extend life expectancy by at least five years. Senior author Dr. Lennert Veerman of Griffith University highlighted the significance, suggesting that the loss of life years attributable to inactivity might rival those caused by smoking and hypertension.
The study followed participants aged 40 and older from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2003-2006), utilizing hip accelerometers to accurately gauge activity levels. Findings indicated that individuals in the least active quartile could expect a life expectancy reduction from approximately 78 to 73 years. Conversely, if all individuals over 40 matched the activity levels of the top quartile, life expectancy could rise to 83.7 years.
Researchers illustrated that those in the least active group were effectively achieving the equivalent of just 49 minutes of walking daily at a moderate pace. They discovered that even an additional 111 minutes of daily activity could potentially extend individual life by up to 11 years.
Dr. Andrew Freeman from National Jewish Health, who did not take part in the study, emphasized that increased physical activity can significantly improve health outcomes and longevity. The study, although based on existing data, suggests a strong correlation between activity levels and reduced risk of diseases such as heart disease and diabetes.
The study also points towards practical solutions for integrating more movement into daily life. Simple changes, such as using standing desks or taking more walks, can contribute significantly to one’s overall activity.
In conclusion, this research underscores the pressing need to prioritize physical activity, not only to improve individual health but as a vital public health objective to drive down healthcare costs in the U.S.
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