What's happened
A new study reveals that standing desks do not improve cardiovascular health and may increase the risk of circulatory issues. Conducted by the University of Sydney, the research followed over 83,000 UK adults, finding that prolonged standing can lead to conditions like varicose veins and deep vein thrombosis.
Why it matters
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, Dr. Matthew Ahmadi emphasized that 'standing for too long will not offset an otherwise sedentary lifestyle and could be risky for some people in terms of circulatory health.' The Independent echoed this sentiment, stating that standing does not reduce the risk of diseases like stroke and heart failure. The New York Post highlighted that while standing desks are popular, they may not provide the expected health benefits, urging individuals to incorporate regular movement into their routines. Emily McGrath from the British Heart Foundation noted the importance of avoiding stationary periods, reinforcing the need for active lifestyles.
How we got here
The popularity of standing desks has surged as a solution to the health risks associated with prolonged sitting. However, recent research challenges this notion, indicating that standing may not provide the expected health benefits.
Common question
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How Could Weight-Loss Drugs Like Mounjaro Affect Employment and Health?
The UK government is exploring the potential of weight-loss drugs like Mounjaro to tackle obesity and its related health issues. With obesity costing the NHS over £11 billion annually, these trials aim to assess whether such treatments can improve health outcomes and boost employment rates. But what are the implications for NHS services and the individuals involved? Here are some common questions and answers regarding this important topic.
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Do Standing Desks Really Improve Health?
Standing desks have gained popularity as a solution to combat the health risks associated with prolonged sitting. However, recent studies suggest that standing may not be the health panacea many believe it to be. This raises important questions about the actual benefits and potential risks of using standing desks in the workplace.
More on these topics
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UK Biobank is a large long-term biobank study in the United Kingdom which is investigating the respective contributions of genetic predisposition and environmental exposure to the development of disease. It began in 2006.
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The British Heart Foundation is a charity organisation in the United Kingdom. It funds research to beat heartbreak from heart and circulatory diseases and their risk factors.