A recent study published in The Lancet Global Health reveals a concerning trend in India: nearly half of the adult population doesn't meet the World Health Organization's (WHO) guidelines for sufficient physical activity. This inactivity is more prevalent among women, raising concerns about their increased risk of chronic diseases.
The study, which analyzed data from 197 countries between 2000 and 2022, indicates a sharp rise in physical inactivity among Indian adults. In 2022, 45.4% of Indian adults were considered physically inactive, a significant increase from 22.4% in 2000. Projections suggest that if this trend continues, inactivity levels in India could reach 60% by 2030.
A significant gender disparity exists, with 57% of Indian women being physically inactive compared to 42% of men. This means that women in India face a disproportionately higher risk of developing chronic diseases linked to physical inactivity. Insufficient physical activity among women in India, Pakistan, and Afghanistan is a major concern, with women lagging behind men by over 14-20 percentage points. This is particularly alarming as many Indian women mistakenly believe that household chores provide sufficient physical exercise.
WHO recommends that adults engage in at least 150 to 300 minutes of moderate aerobic activity each week, or an equivalent amount of vigorous activity. Insufficient physical activity is defined as not meeting these guidelines. Physical inactivity is a major risk factor for cardiovascular diseases (like heart attacks and strokes), type 2 diabetes, dementia, and certain cancers (such as breast and colon cancer). It also contributes to mental health issues.
Several factors contribute to this rising inactivity. Changes in work patterns towards more sedentary jobs, environmental factors that make active transportation difficult, and an increase in screen-based leisure activities all play a role. Moreover, women often have less time to prioritize physical activity due to their multiple roles as caregivers and their greater share of household duties.
India has the 12th highest prevalence of insufficient physical activity among 195 countries. This is especially concerning because Indians are genetically predisposed to developing non-communicable diseases like heart disease and diabetes earlier in life compared to other populations. Lack of physical activity exacerbates these existing risk factors, creating a significant public health challenge.
Experts emphasize the urgent need for lifestyle changes to combat these health risks. Regular physical activity can significantly reduce the risk of various cancers, heart disease, stroke, diabetes, depression, and dementia. Public health initiatives and individual efforts are crucial to promote more active lifestyles and address the growing threat of chronic diseases in India, particularly among women.
