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Prolonged Sitting Linked To Liver Damage

A recent study highlights the potential dangers associated with prolonged sedentary behavior in children, suggesting that spending more than six hours a day inactive may increase the risk of severe fatty liver disease and liver cirrhosis during young adulthood. Researchers found that for every additional half-hour of sedentary time beyond six hours daily, there was a 15% higher likelihood of developing fatty liver disease by the age of 25.

On the other hand, the study also uncovered a protective effect linked to light physical activity. It was observed that for each extra half-hour of light-intensity activity exceeding three hours per day, the odds of severe fatty liver disease decreased by 33%.

Lead researcher Dr. Andrew Agbaje, an associate professor of epidemiology and child health at the University of Eastern Finland, emphasized the importance of not solely relying on the commonly recommended 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per day. Instead, he highlighted the significance of incorporating overlooked light-intensity physical activities, such as outdoor games, playground activities, walking pets, running errands, and biking, for 3 to 4 hours daily.

The study analyzed data from nearly 2,700 British children who intermittently wore wrist devices to monitor their daily activity from ages 11 to 24. At ages 17 and 24, participants underwent liver ultrasounds to assess fatty liver and signs of liver scarring.

The findings revealed that approximately 20% of participants had fatty liver disease by age 24, a surprising statistic considering the rapid increase in risk over just seven years. Additionally, half of the young adults with fatty liver disease had severe cases, and a small percentage already showed signs of liver scarring and cirrhosis.

Dr. Agbaje stressed the importance of raising awareness among the general public about the risks of sedentary behavior on the health of children, adolescents, and young adults. Advanced fatty liver disease and liver cirrhosis not only pose immediate health threats but also increase the likelihood of future complications such as liver cancer or the need for a liver transplant.