Warning people in Wales might be at risk of disease for not exercising enough
New report from World Health Organization (WHO) researchers has revealed that nearly 1.8 billion adults worldwide are at increased risk of diseases
Last updated 30th Jun 2024
A new worldwide report is raising fears that people in Wales may be at risk of disease through lack of exercise.
A report from World Health Organization (WHO) researchers and academics has revealed that nearly 1.8 billion adults worldwide are at increased risk of diseases such as cancer, stroke, dementia, and diabetes due to insufficient exercise.
The study found that global physical inactivity has risen by approximately five percentage points between 2010 and 2022.
According to the report, almost a third (31%) of adults globally do not engage in enough physical activity, up from 23% (900 million people) in 2000 and 26% in 2010.
If current trends persist, experts predict that by 2030, about 35% of people will not be exercising enough.
Insufficient exercise significantly raises the risk of heart disease, strokes, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and cancers such as breast and bowel cancer.
The study also noted a gender disparity, with women being less likely to exercise than men, showing inactivity rates of 34% compared to 29%.
Published in The Lancet Global Health journal, the study warns that the world is off track from meeting the global target to reduce physical inactivity by 2030.
WHO recommends that adults engage in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity weekly.
Examples of moderate activity include brisk walking, heavy cleaning, and cycling at 10-12 mph. Vigorous activities include hiking, jogging, fast cycling, and playing sports like football, basketball, or tennis.