Reloaded News Desk

Long hours spent sitting at work, behind the wheel or in front of screens may increase the risk of several health problems, a medical expert has warned.

Dr Wale Okediran said prolonged sitting has been associated with obesity and a group of conditions linked to metabolic syndrome, including high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, excess abdominal fat and unhealthy cholesterol levels.

He also noted that excessive sitting has been linked to increased risks of cardiovascular disease and some cancers.

The warning is particularly relevant to people whose jobs require long periods at desks, in meetings, while driving or travelling.

Okediran advised people to interrupt prolonged sitting with regular movement and suggested taking short breaks from sitting, including standing up periodically and incorporating walking into daily activities.

The World Health Organisation also identifies sedentary behaviour — including prolonged sitting, reclining or lying while awake — as a health concern associated with increased risks of cardiovascular disease, cancer and type 2 diabetes.