2024/06/28 Global Inactivity Crisis: 1.8 Billion Adults at Risk by 2030

     New research from the World Health Organization (WHO) reveals that nearly onethird of adults worldwide, approximately 1.8 billion people, did not meet recommended physical activity levels in 2022. This alarming trend has worsened by 5 percentage points since 2010 and is projected to rise to 35% by 2030 if no significant action is taken.

     The WHO advises adults to engage in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week to maintain health. However, the current inactivity levels heighten the risk of severe health issues, including cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and certain cancers.

     The highest inactivity rates were recorded in high-income Asia Pacific (48%) and South Asia (45%). Disparities persist between genders and age groups, with women and those over 60 being notably less active. Globally, 34% of women and 29% of men are inactive.

     Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasized the urgency of reversing this trend: " We must renew our commitment to increasing physical activity through bold action, strengthened policies, and increased funding."  Despite these challenges, the study noted improvements in nearly half of the world's countries, with 22 nations on track to reduce inactivity by 15% by 2030. WHO calls for comprehensive strategies to promote physical activity, including grassroots sports, active recreation, and transport.

     Dr. Rüdiger Krech, Director of Health Promotion at WHO, stressed the need for innovative approaches to make physical activity accessible and enjoyable for all, addressing factors like age and cultural background. Dr. Fiona Bull, Head of the WHO Unit for Physical Activity, highlighted the necessity of a whole-of-society approach to create environments conducive to active lifestyles. Collective efforts and increased investments in innovative strategies are crucial to reaching the least active populations and reducing health inequalities globally.