Prolonged Sitting Increases Risk Of Hypertension, Experts Warn
Medical professionals have raised alarms over the dangers of prolonged sitting, warning that it poses serious health risks many people are unaware of.
Health experts say that extended periods of sitting are linked to obesity and high blood pressure, particularly in individuals with existing risk factors. They stress that the human body is naturally designed to remain upright, and the cardiovascular system functions more efficiently when active.
According to physicians, excessive sitting or standing can cause fluid buildup in the lower limbs, leading to swelling in the ankles, feet, and legs.
Dr. John Asekhame, a Consultant Physician and Cardiologist at Providence Multi-Specialty Hospital in Abuja, cautioned against long periods of sitting, noting its link to various health issues. He emphasized that although not everyone is affected in the same way, some individuals are more vulnerable to developing cardiovascular conditions from a sedentary lifestyle.
Dr. Asekhame explained, “Prolonged sitting contributes to obesity, which in turn raises the risk of cardiovascular disease. It also affects blood circulation and can lead to leg swelling. It’s important to stand up every 30 minutes, stretch, walk around, or move your body rather than remain sedentary.”
He noted that sitting for long periods reduces energy consumption and hinders fat burning, increasing fat storage and potentially leading to insulin resistance—a condition that can trigger Type 2 diabetes.
Dr. Asekhame further warned that sitting for too long may elevate the risk of diabetes, even in individuals with normal blood pressure. He added that decreased blood flow from inactivity raises the risk of thrombosis and blood clots, which can cause serious health events depending on where they travel in the body.
“A blood clot that moves to the heart can cause a heart attack, one that travels to the lungs can lead to pulmonary embolism, and if it reaches the brain, it can result in a stroke,” he explained.
He urged the public to avoid a sedentary lifestyle, incorporate regular physical activity, and seek cardiovascular risk assessments—especially for those already diagnosed with heart-related conditions.
The American Heart Association (AHA) supports these concerns, stating that prolonged sedentary behavior significantly increases the likelihood of heart disease, diabetes, and premature death. In a report titled “Sitting Too Much May Raise Heart Disease Risk,” the AHA revealed that adults are now spending over nine hours a day sitting.
The association noted that sedentary activities—including sitting, driving, watching TV, using screens, and reading—are becoming increasingly common. “Our bodies were designed for movement. When we deny ourselves consistent physical activity, profound internal changes take place,” the advisory stated.
Dr. Sylvester Ikhisemojie, a Senior Consultant with the Lagos State Health Service Commission, also affirmed the health risks of prolonged sitting. He explained that physical inactivity can lead to muscle loss, reduced bone density, weight gain, and deep vein thrombosis.
He introduced the term "Sitting Disease," which refers to the array of health problems associated with long-term sitting. These include high blood pressure, diabetes, blood clots, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
Dr. Ikhisemojie highlighted how modern routines often promote this unhealthy cycle: “After sitting for hours at work, we drive home, have dinner, and spend more time sitting to watch television before bed—only to repeat the pattern the next day.”
He concluded that chronic physical inactivity is now also being linked to depression, certain cancers, and reduced overall fitness levels.