Millions of people around the world are not getting enough exercise with devastating consequences: in the ten-year period from 2020 to 2030, almost 500 million people worldwide are at risk of heart disease, obesity, diabetes, depression and dementia, among other things, due to a lack of exercise , as the World Health Organization (WHO) reported on Wednesday. Austria also has a lot to catch up on. Especially the boys hardly move.
The WHO recommends that adults exercise at least 150 minutes per week to prevent illness. 27.5 percent of the world’s population does not achieve this. In high-income countries, the problem is about 36.8 percent, twice as great as in low-income countries (16.2 percent).
Girls lazier than boys
The figures from Austria are also alarming, especially among children and young people. 85 percent of girls and 71 percent of boys aged 11 to 17 do not exercise enough. For adults, that’s only 34 percent of women and 26 percent of men. At an older age (from 70 years) regular exercise decreases again, the proportion of inactive women is 49 percent and men 40 percent. By comparison, in Finland, cited by the WHO as a shining example, only 16 percent of women and 17 percent of men are not active enough
It doesn’t have to be the gym
In order to stay physically fit, it is not necessary to do sports activities such as jogging or fitness classes in associations or clubs, the WHO emphasizes. Cycling and brisk walking also contribute to fitness. In some countries, there are cultural barriers that prevent women from exercising outdoors. But you can also stay fit within your own four walls, for example by climbing stairs, playing with children or doing housework, it said. And as the corona pandemic has shown, also through video fitness offers.
Money for treatment would fund millions of doctors
Treating the 500 million people likely to become ill from lack of exercise will cost the world a total of $27 billion (about $27.5 billion), Fiona Bull, head of the WHO’s Department of Physical Activity, reported in Geneva. . Instead, 100 million doctors could be trained with the money.
Source: Krone
I’m Wayne Wickman, a professional journalist and author for Today Times Live. My specialty is covering global news and current events, offering readers a unique perspective on the world’s most pressing issues. I’m passionate about storytelling and helping people stay informed on the goings-on of our planet.
