Scotland needs to become more physically active – we can achieve this
Posted on 02 October 2024 by Ruth Glassborow
- Physical activity
Following the publication of stark figures from Public Health Scotland (PHS) on the impact physical inactivity has on the population, Ruth Glassborow, Director of Place and Wellbeing at PHS, reflects on the opportunity that a new framework published today will provide.
Engaging in regular physical activity offers a huge range of benefits for both our bodies and minds.
It can do wonders for improving cardiovascular and bone health, aids in weight management, and helps boosts our immune system. It also enhances our mental health by reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety, improving sleep quality, and has brain enhancing effects on concentration and focus. Additionally, being active can improve mood and self-esteem, increase energy levels, and foster social connections.
Put simply, incorporating physical activity into your routine can lead to a healthier, happier life.
However, not everyone in Scotland is currently benefitting from being physically active.
Recently, Public Health Scotland published a report which highlighted the significant impact that physical inactivity is having on our population. The report found that a substantial portion of the population fails to meet the recommended levels of physical activity, leading to a diminished quality of life and increased healthcare needs.
Soberingly, it stated there are an estimated 3,185 deaths and more than 11,474 disability-adjusted life years (DALY) per year attributable to physical inactivity in Scotland. One DALY represents the loss of the equivalent of one year of full health.
More than 80% of these are in relation to individuals who are categorised as having ‘very low activity’, which is less than 30 minutes of physical activity a week.
This is not just an individual health issue but a systemic one.
Physical inactivity is a major public health concern, contributing to a range of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, and certain cancers. These are potentially preventable illnesses which are having an increasingly significant impact on healthcare services and their ability to operate effectively.
Furthermore, sedentary lifestyles are linked to higher rates of depression and anxiety, adding further demand.
This highlights the need to address inactivity, particularly amongst the least active (those doing less than 30 minutes per week), and ensure infrastructure exists to enable the population to be physically active throughout the routines of daily life and across the life course.
Today, we welcome and support the publication of Scotland’s Physical Activity for Health Framework, which aligns with our vision of a Scotland where everybody thrives. This framework, published by Scottish Government, is a crucial step forward in improving life expectancy, reducing health inequalities, and enabling people to live longer, healthier lives.
The framework emphasises the need for a collaborative systems-based approach to tackling physical inactivity. This involves not only healthcare professionals but also policymakers, educators, urban planners, and community leaders.
By creating a culture and environment that supports and encourages physical activity -including safe walking, wheeling and cycling paths, accessible recreational facilities, and active transportation options - we can make it easier for individuals to incorporate movement into their daily lives.
The benefits of an active lifestyle extend beyond individual health to the wellbeing of our entire community. By working together, we can create a healthier, more active Scotland, where everyone has the opportunity to lead a fulfilling and active life.
View our report on estimating the burden of disease attributable to physical inactivity in Scotland