Recent findings indicate that small changes in walking habits could notably reduce NHS expenses.
- Research by Vitality and LSE suggests £15 billion in NHS savings with increased walking.
- Currently, 35% of the UK population remains inactive, heightening health concerns.
- Walking 5,000 steps weekly might save the NHS £4 billion annually.
- Increasing to thrice a week enhances savings to £15 billion, aiding in type 2 diabetes reduction.
Research conducted by Vitality in collaboration with the London School of Economics uncovers potential NHS savings through increased physical activity. The study highlights that incremental steps in walking behaviour could yield significant savings for the NHS, potentially reducing costs by £15 billion annually if half of the UK’s inactive population engaged in walking 5,000 steps thrice weekly.
Currently, about 35% of the UK population is inactive, with a palpable impact on healthcare services due to rising cases of non-communicable diseases. The study emphasises a link between inactivity and increased hospitalisation rates, particularly due to illnesses like type 2 diabetes. A mere increase in physical activity, like walking, could reverse some of these trends, saving the NHS approximately £4 billion if the inactive population walks once a week.
The research suggests that individuals who adopt regular walking habits can add years to their lifespan. Such habits particularly benefit people over 65, who experience a 52% reduction in mortality risk when walking 7,500 steps or more, thrice a week. This reduction is notable when compared with age groups 45-65, where the risk decreases by 38%, and the general population, with a 27% reduction. Beyond 7,500 steps, health benefits tend to be incremental.
Walking not only aids in reducing mortality risk but also significantly impacts the risks associated with type 2 diabetes. An individual maintaining 10,000 steps three times weekly for several years could potentially lower their diabetes risk by 41%. Furthermore, increasing to four times a week correlates with a 57% reduction. Hence, consistent physical activity not only prevents but also aids in managing diabetes, reducing all-cause mortality risk by 40% for those already diagnosed.
Developing such habits does not happen overnight. The Habit Index study underscores gradual habit formation as key to sustained physical activity. This involves starting with achievable targets, progressively building up consistency and frequency, and then increasing intensity. Such interventions, backed by scientific insights and incentives, could significantly transform personal and public health outcomes.
Ambitious yet achievable walking habits present a practical solution to reducing healthcare costs and enhancing overall public health in the UK.
