Sedentary Behavior and Physical Inactivity in the Asia-Pacific Region: Current Challenges and Emerging Concerns

Abstract

This editorial sets the scene for our Special Issue on the growing problem of sedentary behavior and physical inactivity in the Asia-Pacific region. In many societies, more than 40% of the adult population and growing numbers of children are insufficiently physically active to safeguard their health. This is contributing to high rates of cardiovascular disease, obesity, and other deleterious health outcomes across the region. The Asia-Pacific is heterogeneous and complex, with diverse social, cultural, and environmental barriers that affect intentions and opportunities for regular physical activity. Recently, the problem has been compounded by the acceleration of population aging, the worsening effects of anthropogenic climate change, and the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. Without strong leadership, enduring funding support, and innovative interventions that cut across policy and society, we may yet be facing a century of unmitigated expansion of morbidity across the Asia-Pacific.

Sedentary Lifestyle as a Leading cause of Some Diseases and Disability

“…For example, statistics indicate that 31% and 28% of the adult populations of New Zealand and Australia, respectively, meet the criteria for being clinically overweight, making them the most overweight countries in the Asia-Pacific region. (15) Regardless of the type of activity-whether brisk walking, aerobic exercise, or muscular training-the rate of physical activity among individuals aged 19 years or older in South Korea is declining. In 2017, the adult population in Korea had rates of aerobic exercise, walking, and muscular training of 48.5%, 39.0%, and 21.6%, respectively, with the majority of the population being physically inactive.…”

The Association between a Minimum Amount of Physical Activity and Subsequent Muscle Strength and Balance in Older Adults: A Prospective Study

“…These recommended levels of PA have been reported to result in a positive association between muscle strength and balance in older adults [ 27 , 28 ]. While substantial benefits of meeting PA recommendations have been reported, the percentage of older adults who meet PA guidelines remains low in the United States [ 29 ] and in certain East Asian countries [ 30 , 31 ]. Meeting the current PA guidelines (150 min/week of MVPA) may be especially challenging for such adults, and a smaller amount of MVPA might be easier to achieve, particularly in older adult populations experiencing a decline in physical function.…”