Health for Body Mind and Soul

Sitting for long periods of time can be hazardous to your health and longevity. Dosemeci et al (1993) found that individuals employed in occupations that required low levels of physical activity were at risk for a number of cancers. The cancer sites related to inactivity in the workplace were: colon, rectum, colon/rectum, prostate, lung, breast, cervix, stomach, bladder, pancreas and testes. Socio-economic status also plays a role in physical activity and cancers.

Leisure time spent sitting is also related to risk of death and many chronic diseases. According to Patel et. al (2010), there is increasing evidence which demonstrates that by “reducing the amount of time spent sitting, regardless of the amount of physical activity, may improve…consequences” associated with obesity. Results from this study showed stronger associations between the amount of time spent sitting and mortality with cardiovascular disease and cancer. The association was greatest with cardiovascular disease for both men and women. Women who spent large amounts of time sitting however, experienced increased number of deaths from cancer. More deaths from all causes were also associated with longer time spent sitting.

Watching television (TV) is the most widespread leisure activity, and it is also associated with high cardiovascular risk. A study by Wijndaele et al (2011) found that each one hour increase in time spent watching TV was associated with increased rates of death from all causes.

The bottom line – kicking back and relaxing in your favorite chair may be hazardous to your health. Get up and move about for good health and longevity.

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