1.8 Billion Adults at Risk Due to Physical Inactivity
Recent data reveals that nearly one third (31%) of adults worldwide—approximately 1.8 billion people—failed to meet the recommended levels of physical activity in 2022. This statistic highlights a troubling increase in physical inactivity, which has risen by about 5 percentage points from 2010 to 2022.
If this trend persists, levels of inactivity are projected to rise further, reaching 35% by 2030. Currently, the world is off track in 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. Failure to meet these guidelines puts adults at greater risk of cardiovascular diseases, such as heart attacks and strokes, as well as type 2 diabetes, dementia, and cancers like breast and colon cancer.
Regional and Demographic Disparities
The highest rates of physical inactivity were observed in the high-income Asia Pacific region (48%) and South Asia (45%), with other regions showing inactivity levels ranging from 28% in high-income Western countries to 14% in Oceania. Disparities also exist between genders and age groups. Globally, women are more inactive than men, with inactivity rates of 34% compared to 29%. In some countries, this gap is as wide as 20 percentage points. Additionally, older adults (over 60) are less active than younger adults, highlighting the need for targeted interventions to promote physical activity among seniors.
Mental health is also adversely affected by a sedentary lifestyle. Physical activity is known to reduce symptoms of depression and anxiety, improve mood, and enhance overall cognitive function. Without adequate exercise, individuals may experience a decline in mental health, leading to a diminished quality of life.
Barriers to Physical Activity
Several factors contribute to the global inactivity crisis. Urbanization has led to environments that are often not conducive to physical activity, with limited access to parks, sidewalks, and recreational facilities. Safety concerns, particularly in densely populated urban areas, can also deter people from engaging in outdoor exercise.
A Call to Action
The statistic of 1.8 billion adults at risk from insufficient physical activity is a wake-up call. The global community must recognize the gravity of this issue and take collective action to promote a more active lifestyle. By prioritizing physical activity, we can prevent countless cases of chronic disease, improve mental health, and enhance the overall well-being of populations worldwide. The time to act is now, for the health of current and future generations.
To reach the least active populations and reduce inequalities, collective efforts from government and nongovernmental stakeholders, along with increased investments in innovative approaches, are essential.