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Physical activity, multimorbidity, and life expectancy: a UK Biobank longitudinal study
Yogini V Chudasama1,2, Kamlesh K Khunti3,4, Francesco Zaccardi3
1Diabetes Research Centre, Leicester General Hospital, University of Leicester, Leicester, LE5 4PW, UK. yc244@leicester.ac.uk.
BMC Medicine
|June 13, 2019
Summary
Regular physical activity (PA) significantly reduces mortality risk and increases life expectancy for individuals with multimorbidity. Moderate to high levels of exercise offer substantial benefits, adding years to life for those with multiple chronic conditions.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Gerontology
Background:
- Multimorbidity is a growing public health concern.
- Physical activity (PA) is a recommended lifestyle behavior, but its benefits for individuals with multimorbidity are not well-established.
- This study investigates the impact of PA on mortality and life expectancy in individuals with and without multimorbidity.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the association between physical activity levels and mortality in individuals with and without multimorbidity.
- To determine the impact of physical activity on life expectancy for individuals with multimorbidity.
- To provide evidence-based recommendations for physical activity in managing multimorbidity.
Main Methods:
- Utilized the UK Biobank dataset, including data on 36 chronic conditions.
- Defined multimorbidity using multiple criteria (number of conditions, self-reported health, common comorbidities).
- Measured leisure-time PA (LTPA) and total PA (TPA) via questionnaire and objective accelerometer data, categorizing them into low, moderate, and high levels.
Main Results:
- A significant inverse dose-response relationship was observed between PA and mortality.
- Individuals with multimorbidity engaging in moderate and high LTPA experienced reduced mortality risk (HRs 0.75 and 0.65, respectively) compared to low LTPA.
- Moderate and high PA were associated with significant increases in life expectancy for individuals with multimorbidity (e.g., 3.12 and 3.55 additional years at age 45 for moderate and high LTPA, respectively).
Conclusions:
- Physical activity demonstrates a clear dose-response benefit in reducing mortality and increasing life expectancy for individuals with multimorbidity.
- Moderate exercise is associated with longer life expectancy, even for those managing multiple chronic conditions.
- These findings underscore the importance of promoting physical activity as a key strategy in managing multimorbidity.
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