‘Small changes’ during adulthood lower risk of early death by up to 40 per cent
Exercise in later life can reduce risk of death by 40 per cent
- A study has found that exercising throughout adulthood can reduce the risk of early death by 30 per cent to 40 per cent.
- The research, which reviewed 85 existing studies, indicates that any physical activity is beneficial, and it is never too late to adopt a more active lifestyle.
- People who consistently exercised had a 30-40 per cent lower risk of dying from any cause, while those who increased their activity levels saw a 20-25 per cent reduction.
- Even switching from an inactive to an active lifestyle reduced the risk of death by 22 per cent compared to remaining inactive.
- Experts emphasise that physical activity improves physical function and has anti-inflammatory effects, supporting World Health Organisation guidelines for weekly exercise.