Jojy Cheriyan MD, MPH-- January 19, 2015

Many studies have linked sedentary life style to cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and obesity. More than enough scientific evidence exists to show that exercise would improve the quality of life and reverse conditions like pre-diabetes, hypercholesterolemia, heart diseases etc.

But a recent study by Canadian researchers found that sitting longer time increases the risks of heart disease, diabetes, cancer and death, even if a person does exercise regularly. This study cannot be taken lightly since it was done by analyzing a pooled data of 47 prior studies. The accumulated evidence showed worse outcomes including death for those who sat for longer periods daily.

Risks were even higher for those who didn't exercise or did little. The research was published on Jan.19, 2015, in the online issue of the Journal Annals of Internal Medicine.

Among the studies reviewed by the Canadian researchers, the definition of prolonged sitting ranged from eight hours a day to 12 hours or more. The biggest health hazard stemming from prolonged sitting, according to the review, was a 90 percent higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Previous studies have also found significant links between sedentary life and cancer incidence, including deaths. Mostly noted between sedentary behavior and breast, colon, uterine and ovarian cancers.

The researchers of the study also suggested some additional tips to reduce sitting time--

(1) Taking a one- to three-minute break every half-hour during the day to stand (which burns twice as many calories as sitting) or walking  around.

(2) Standing or exercising while watching TV

(3) Gradually reduce sitting time by 2 to 3 hours in a 12 hour period .

Physical inactivity is the fourth leading cause of death and 3.2 million people die due to sedentary life, according to the report of  World Health Organization.