Sedentary Lifestyles Bad for Health of Postmenopausal Women

A recent study found that postmenopausal women who sit for longer periods of time are at a higher risk of suffering from premature death due to health problems like cardiovascular disease, heart disease and cancer. The results of the study were published in the American Journal of Preventive Health.

The results of the study were based on findings from 92234 women aged between 50 and 79 years and were followed up for a mean duration of 12 years. The duration of sedentary time was determined by a questionnaire administered to the women.

The study found that the risk of dying early was greater in those who spent a sedentary life for more than 11 hours a day as compared to those who were sedentary for four or less hours.

Unfortunately, exercising daily does not appear to reduce the risk. These findings indicate that it is necessary to be active enough every day in addition to exercising in order to lead a healthy and longer life.

A researcher involved in the study, Rebecca Seguin has suggested some simple ways to reduce these prolonged periods of inactivity. Women who work in offices should take frequent breaks and get up from their chairs and move around. On the other hand, women who are retired should also avoid sitting in one place for prolonged durations and move around in the house and outside as far as possible.

Reference:

http://www.ajpmonline.org/article/S0749-3797(13)00594-1/abstract

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Source-Medindia