Standing desks could help you live longer
Standing desks could positively impact life expectancy, according to a new study.
Deakin University in Australia conducted research on 230 desk-based workers to ascertain the effects of sitting less and moving more. Academics found that standing desks could save 7,492 “health-adjusted life years” in prevention of obesity-related diseases. Lead researcher Dr Lan Gao from Deakin said that spending long periods sitting at a desk was linked to ailments such a heart disease, type 2 diabetes and obesity.
“Adopting this workplace intervention also has the potential to reduce absenteeism and improve productivity,” Gao told the Guardian. “The introduction of sit-stand desks, alongside associated supports, is a cost-effective and innovative way to promote the health of Australia’s workforce.”
Currently, 45 per cent of Australians are desk-bound and it would cost $344 each for standing desks to be installed. However, researchers say the benefits would make it worth the money.
“Ultimately this intervention has the potential to make a very significant and sustainable positive impact on reducing workplace sitting time, but most importantly it is also cost-effective, which we know is critical in making the case for a wider rollout of this program,” said Gao.
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