A recent study has revealed alarming insights into the health risks associated with prolonged sitting, indicating that spending more than 10.6 hours a day in a sedentary position significantly increases the likelihood of heart failure and cardiovascular-related deaths. This risk persists even among individuals who meet the recommended guidelines of 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) each week.
The research, published in the *Journal of the American College of Cardiology* and presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2024, involved nearly 90,000 participants from the UK Biobank, with an average age of 62. Participants wore accelerometers to accurately track their movement over a week. After an eight-year follow-up, findings showed that about 2.1% developed heart failure, nearly 2% suffered heart attacks, and just under 1% died from cardiovascular causes.
Dr. Shaan Khurshid, a cardiac electrophysiologist at Massachusetts General Hospital and co-senior author of the study, emphasized that while regular exercise is crucial for reducing cardiovascular disease risk, excessive sitting poses an independent threat that cannot be mitigated solely by physical activity. “The effects of sedentary behavior on cardiovascular disease are much less understood,” Khurshid stated. “Establishing that avoiding excess sedentary behavior is important could provide another avenue for improving public health.”
The study identified a critical threshold—10.6 hours of sitting—beyond which the risk of heart failure and cardiovascular mortality sharply rises. Even among those who adhered to exercise guidelines, the dangers associated with prolonged sitting remained significant. “For heart failure and cardiovascular mortality, strong associations with increased risk persisted even among individuals who were active,” Khurshid noted.
Given these findings, experts recommend that individuals strive to limit their sedentary time and incorporate movement into their daily routines. Simple strategies include taking short breaks to stand or walk every hour and considering alternatives like walking meetings or using a treadmill desk.
As sedentary lifestyles become increasingly common in today’s work environments, understanding the implications for heart health is crucial. This research serves as a wake-up call for both individuals and public health advocates to prioritize reducing sitting time alongside promoting physical activity.
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