New data reveals that nearly one third (31%) of adults worldwide, approximately 1.8 billion people, did not meet the recommended levels of physical activity in 2022. This concerning trend highlights a significant increase in physical inactivity among adults, which has risen by about 5 percentage points between 2010 and 2022.
Projected Trends and Global Targets
If this trend continues, inactivity levels are projected to rise to 35% by 2030. This indicates that the world is currently off track from meeting the global target to reduce physical inactivity by 2030. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends that adults engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity physical activity per week. Physical inactivity significantly increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and cancers such as breast and colon cancer.
Study Findings and Publication
The study, conducted by researchers from WHO in collaboration with academic colleagues, was published in The Lancet Global Health journal. The findings underscore a missed opportunity to reduce the incidence of cancer and heart disease and to improve mental well-being through increased physical activity.
WHO’s Call to Action
Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, WHO Director-General, emphasized the need for renewed commitment to increasing physical activity levels.
“We must prioritize bold action, including strengthened policies and increased funding, to reverse this worrying trend.”
– Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus
Regional Disparities in Physical Inactivity
The highest rates of physical inactivity were observed in the high-income Asia Pacific region (48%) and South Asia (45%). Other regions displayed varying levels of inactivity, from 28% in high-income Western countries to 14% in Oceania.
Gender and Age Disparities
Physical inactivity is more prevalent among women globally compared to men, with inactivity rates of 34% and 29% respectively. In some countries, this disparity is as much as 20 percentage points. Additionally, older adults (over 60) are less active than younger adults, highlighting the need for targeted efforts to promote physical activity among older populations.
Addressing Physical Inactivity: Strategies and Solutions
Dr. Rüdiger Krech, Director of Health Promotion at WHO, described physical inactivity as a “silent threat to global health,” significantly contributing to the burden of chronic diseases. He called for innovative strategies to motivate people to be more active, taking into account factors such as age, environment, and cultural background. By making physical activity accessible, affordable, and enjoyable, the risk of noncommunicable diseases can be reduced, leading to a healthier and more productive population.
Signs of Improvement and Success Stories
Despite the overall concerning trends, some countries have shown improvement. Nearly half of the world’s countries have made progress over the past decade, and 22 countries are on track to meet the global target of reducing inactivity by 15% by 2030 if their current trends continue.
WHO’s Recommendations for Promoting Physical Activity
In response to these findings, WHO is urging countries to enhance their policy implementation to promote and enable physical activity. This includes grassroots and community sports, active recreation, and active transport (walking, cycling, and the use of public transport).
Creating Supportive Environments
Dr. Fiona Bull, Head of the WHO Unit for Physical Activity, stressed that promoting physical activity requires a whole-of-society approach.
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“Creating environments that make it easier and safer for everyone to be more active in ways they enjoy is crucial to reap the many health benefits of regular physical activity.”
– Dr. Fiona Bull, Head of the WHO Unit for Physical Activity
Collaborative Efforts and Investments
Achieving significant improvements in physical activity levels will require collective efforts and partnerships between governmental and nongovernmental stakeholders. Increased investments in innovative approaches are essential to reach the least active populations and to reduce inequalities in access to measures promoting physical activity.
The findings highlight a critical need for global action to combat physical inactivity. With strategic policies, innovative approaches, and collaborative efforts, it is possible to reverse the current trend and achieve the global target of reducing physical inactivity by 2030. By prioritizing physical activity, countries can improve public health, reduce the burden of chronic diseases, and enhance the overall well-being of their populations.
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