Regular physical activity provides undeniable health benefits, including reduced risks of chronic diseases and improved mental health.
However, physical inactivity remains a global issue, with about one in three adults not meeting minimum activity recommendations.
Engaging in an additional 15 minutes of physical activity per day could significantly enhance employee productivity, leading to a potential $100 billion increase in the global economy.
This simple change in daily habits could reduce healthcare costs, decrease absenteeism, and improve overall workplace efficiency.
Employers and policymakers must take note of these findings to foster healthier, more active lifestyles that benefit both individuals and the economy as a whole.
Study Objectives
The Vitality Group commissioned RAND Europe to study the global economic implications of increased physical activity levels.
Key questions included:
- What are the potential global economic benefits?
- What is the impact on premature mortality and workplace productivity?
- What healthcare costs could be avoided?
- What can public policies and private actors do to improve activity levels?
Methodology
The study used literature reviews, statistical models, and a multi-country macroeconomic model to assess the effects of changes in physical activity on the GDP of countries up to 2050.
Scenarios and Results
Three scenarios were considered:
1. Meeting minimum activity recommendations for inactive and less active individuals.
2. Increasing physical activity by 20% for all, excluding the totally inactive.
3. A combination of the first two, with a 20% increase for those above recommended levels.
Results show that by 2050, global GDP could increase by $314 to $446 billion (scenario 1) and by $524 to $760 billion (scenario 3).
Reduction in presenteeism accounts for about 70% of these economic gains. Additionally, significant healthcare cost savings, ranging from $8.7 to $20.6 billion, could be realized.
Recommendations
To encourage physical activity, four main strategies are suggested:
1. Utilizing community and individual messages and incentives.
2. Ensuring adequate access to facilities and infrastructure.
3. Increasing awareness and access, especially for disadvantaged groups.
4. Combining various interventions for a synergistic effect.
Conclusion
Investing in initiatives to increase physical activity is crucial not only for public health but also for the global economy.
Policymakers should consider evidence-based interventions to maximize these benefits.
Source : https://www.rand.org/randeurope/research/projects/2019/benefits-of-improving-activity-levels.html
