New Study Warns: Sitting for More Than 10 Hours Increases Risk of Dementia
A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Southern California and the University of Arizona has found that spending excessive time sitting down can significantly increase the risk of developing dementia. The study, which analyzed data from over 50,000 British adults aged 60 and over, suggests that individuals who spend more than 10 hours a day in sedentary behaviors are at a higher risk of being diagnosed with dementia.
To conduct the study, participants wore devices on their wrists that monitored their activity levels and distinguished between sitting and sleeping. Sedentary behaviors that were taken into account included watching TV, driving, playing video games, using a computer, commuting, or sitting at a desk at work. Over a period of approximately six years, the participants were followed, and out of the total group, 414 individuals were diagnosed with dementia.
The analysis of the data revealed a clear connection between long periods of sitting and an increased risk of dementia. The risk was found to start rising significantly after 10 hours of sedentary behavior per day. Those who spent 10 hours sitting down were 8% more likely to develop dementia, while those who spent 12 hours doing so were a staggering 63% more likely to be diagnosed.
Interestingly, the study also found that the way sedentary behavior was accumulated throughout the day played a role. Whether it was long periods of sitting followed by activity or sitting interspersed with standing up, both patterns had a similar link to dementia.
In light of these findings, the researchers stress the importance of taking breaks from prolonged periods of sitting. The recommended strategy is to stand or walk around every 30 minutes or so to decrease the risk of developing dementia. Even lower levels of sedentary behavior, up to around 10 hours, were not associated with an increased risk.
With the increasing prevalence of sedentary behaviors, such as desk jobs and a reliance on technology, this study serves as a crucial reminder that our lifestyles may have long-term consequences on our cognitive health. Taking proactive steps to incorporate movement and breaks into our daily routines can help reduce the risk of dementia and maintain brain health as we age.
The findings of this study are significant, as dementia is a growing public health concern worldwide. By educating the public about the risks of prolonged sitting and promoting regular physical activity, we can all take steps toward a healthier future.
