A recent study published in The Lancet Global Health has revealed alarming trends in physical inactivity among Indian adults, with nearly half failing to meet the recommended levels of physical activity. This statistic places them at increased risk for cardiovascular diseases like heart attacks and strokes, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and various cancers, according to health experts.
Globally, the proportion of adults not meeting the physical activity guidelines stands at 31 per cent, but in Bharat, it climbs to 49.4 per cent, making it one of the highest rates worldwide alongside Pakistan (45.7 per cent). In contrast, countries like Bhutan (9.9 per cent) and Nepal (8.2 per cent) exhibit significantly lower levels of physical inactivity.
The study, conducted by researchers from the World Health Organization (WHO) and academic institutions, highlighted a concerning rise in physical inactivity from 2010 to 2022, with projections suggesting it could reach 59.9 per cent by 2030 if current trends persist.
According to WHO guidelines, adults should engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week to maintain health. This includes activities like walking, cycling, sports, or physical labour.
WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus emphasised the missed opportunity to improve public health through increased physical activity. He called for renewed commitments and robust actions, including policy enhancements and increased funding, to reverse this worrisome trend.
Gender and age disparities also play a role, with women globally more inactive than men (34 per cent vs 29 per cent), and older adults (over 60) less active compared to younger age groups. Addressing these gaps requires tailored approaches that consider cultural backgrounds and environmental factors to make physical activity accessible and enjoyable for all.
Dr Rüdiger Krech, WHO’s director of health promotion, highlighted the significant impact of physical inactivity on chronic diseases and stressed the need for innovative strategies to motivate people towards a more active lifestyle.
Despite the challenges, there are positive signals globally, with nearly half of the world’s countries showing improvement in physical activity levels over the past decade. At least 22 countries are on track to meet the global target of reducing inactivity by 15 per cent by 2030 if current progress continues.
In response to these findings, WHO is urging countries to enhance policy implementation that promotes physical activity through community sports, active transportation, and supportive environments conducive to regular exercise. Dr Fiona Bull, head of WHO’s Unit for Physical Activity, highlighted the necessity of a comprehensive societal approach to make physical activity easier and safer for everyone, thereby reaping its extensive health benefits.
