Those at risk
Adults in North Tyneside are more likely to be inactive than England overall. However, there is also evidence nationally that some groups are less likely to be active than others, which leads to inequalities and unmet needs. Some communities are also disproportionately affected by the health conditions that can result from being less active. Groups that are less likely to be active include:
- Women
- Young people aged 16-34
- People over 75
- People with disabilities and long-term health conditions, including MSK conditions
- People from Black, Asian and other minority ethnic backgrounds
- People living in more deprived areas
- People who are pregnant or have a child under the age of one
Whilst children in North Tyneside are more active than their peers in England overall, inequalities start in childhood and therefore they should not be overlooked in any targeted work.
Physical activity has a range of benefits and therefore people who are inactive are at increased risk from the areas which being active provides some protection. For example, prevalence of some chronic diseases will be higher in the inactive population. They are also more likely to have worse cardiovascular and musculoskeletal health, lower levels of fitness and higher levels of body fat. They will also be less likely realise the mental health benefits from physical activity, such as increased social interactions and increased release of dopamine. Physical activity is responsible for one in six deaths in the UK, which is the same as smoking. It is estimated to cost the economy over £7 billion per year.