Sitting for long periods poses a significant risk to women’s health, as recent studies have shown a strong connection between sedentary lifestyles and uterine fibroids. In fact, women who spend more than six hours a day sitting are twice as likely to develop uterine fibroids compared to those who sit for less than two hours daily.
The link between sedentary behavior and uterine fibroids likely stems from the association between a lack of physical activity and obesity, a known risk factor for fibroids. Additionally, chronic inflammation and vitamin D deficiency, both commonly associated with a sedentary lifestyle, may also contribute to the increased risk of developing fibroids.
Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that affect up to 80% of women, particularly those between the ages of 30 and 50. While small fibroids may be asymptomatic, larger growths can cause pain, swelling, excessive bleeding, constipation, and discharge.
This study, published in BMJ Open, involved over 6,600 women between the ages of 30 and 55, who provided detailed information about their sedentary activities. Those who spent six or more hours sitting each day showed double the risk of developing uterine fibroids compared to those who sat for under two hours per day.
The adverse health effects of prolonged sitting extend beyond uterine fibroids, with previous research linking sedentary behavior to conditions such as dementia, early death, cardiovascular disease, Type 2 diabetes, anxiety, depression, and deep-vein thrombosis. However, there are simple ways to counteract the negative impact of sitting; just five minutes of light walking every half hour has been found to offset the risks associated with prolonged sitting. Additionally, engaging in 22 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity can lower the adverse health effects of sedentary behavior, according to a study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
Ultimately, the findings of this study serve as a compelling reminder to prioritize regular physical activity and reduce sedentary behavior to safeguard women’s health. So, why not get up and take a quick walk right now? Your body will thank you for it later.
