A recent medical study conducted in Britain has revealed that engaging in exercise in natural environments can significantly reduce the risk of numerous chronic diseases including Type 2 diabetes.
Chronic diseases such as heart diseases, strokes, cancer, diabetes and respiratory diseases account for 74% of global deaths worldwide.
These are also referred to as non-communicable diseases (NCDs) which do not transfer from one individual to another.
The research highlights that exercising in natural environments such as beaches and parks can reduce the risk of non-communicable diseases including depression, Type 2 diabetes, heart diseases, strokes, gastrointestinal cancers and breast cancer to a noticeable extent.
The World Health Organization reported in 2022 that failure to adopt physical activities by individuals could lead to an estimated 50 million new cases of non-communicable diseases between 2020 and 2030.
Researchers believe this study marks the first time an assessment has been made on the preventive effects of exercise in natural environments against diseases.
While the focus was primarily on the six most common non-communicable diseases, it is believed that physical activity could also provide protection against various other diseases.
According to global guidelines, individuals aged between 18 and 64 should engage in moderate exercise for at least 150 minutes per week to maintain good health. However, globally only 27.5% of adults adhere to this recommendation.
For those unable to engage in traditional forms of exercise and activities such as walking in parks can significantly improve their health.
The findings of this research were published in the journal Environmental International.
