15 Crore Indian Adults Don’t Meet WHO Guidelines On Physical Activity: Survey

A recent survey done by Dalberg’s State of Sports & Physical Activity pointed out that around 155 million Indian adults and 45 million adolescents failed to meet the WHO guidelines of having an active lifestyle. The survey results are alarming and force us to acknowledge the fact that the absence of sports and exercise in the majority of Indians could become a growing public health concern soon. While the benefits and advantages of living an active lifestyle cannot be stressed enough, despite the knowledge and wisdom regarding the same, shockingly Indians are leading an inactive lifestyle.

The survey results have also pointed out that the efforts put in by some sections of the population to stay healthy are not enough. Even if people engage in walking daily to keep one active the benefits are quite restricted and are not enough to have a healthy body. The survey also revealed that 10 percent of people who engaged in sports activity were not regular, while 66% of adolescents who engaged in sports regularly didn’t have a diverse choice.

The survey further revealed the gender divide that was quite prominent. On average, girls and women spend fewer hours than boys and men on physical activity. In the urban setting, one-third of the women who engage in sports don’t meet the WHO guidelines.

According to the survey if the entire population of the country is active by 2047 the GDP can increase by over INR 15 trillion. It can also help prevent 110 million adult cases of NCDs, fewer suicides and save INR 30 trillion in healthcare costs.

Source: Hindustan Times