The recent data revealing that nearly 1.8 billion adults worldwide did not meet recommended levels of physical activity in 2022 underscores a significant public health challenge. The trend, which has seen a 5 percentage point increase in physical inactivity from 2010 to 2022, is projected to worsen, potentially rising to 35% by 2030. This situation puts a large portion of the global population at increased risk for serious health conditions such as cardiovascular diseases, type 2 diabetes, dementia, and certain cancers.
- Physical Inactivity Levels: In 2022, 31% of adults globally were physically inactive, failing to meet the WHO’s recommended weekly activity levels (150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous-intensity exercise).
- Regional Disparities: The highest inactivity rates were in the high-income Asia Pacific region (48%) and South Asia (45%), with other regions showing varied levels, from 28% in high-income Western countries to 14% in Oceania.
- Gender and Age Disparities: Women are more inactive than men (34% vs. 29%), and older adults (60+) are less active compared to younger adults.
- Positive Trends: Despite the overall negative trend, some countries have shown improvement, with 22 nations on track to meet the global target of reducing inactivity by 15% by 2030.
Recommendations and Call to Action:
- Policy and Funding: Renewed commitment to increase physical activity levels through strengthened policies and increased funding.
- Community and Environment: Promotion of grassroots and community sports, active recreation, and transport (e.g., walking, cycling, and public transport).
- Innovative Approaches: Developing age, environment, and culturally appropriate strategies to make physical activity accessible, affordable, and enjoyable for all.
- Whole-of-Society Approach: Encouraging collective efforts from governments and nongovernmental stakeholders to create environments conducive to physical activity.
- Reducing Inequalities: Targeting the least active populations and addressing disparities in access to physical activity opportunities.
The findings published in The Lancet Global Health highlight the critical need for global action to promote physical activity as a means to improve overall health and reduce the burden of chronic diseases. The WHO emphasizes that increasing physical activity requires a comprehensive approach, involving multiple sectors and innovative strategies to engage different demographic groups effectively.
