High-Speed Internet Linked to Rising Obesity Rates, Study Finds

• 15 Nov 2024

High-Speed Internet Linked to Rising Obesity Rates, Study Finds

 

New research suggests that the rise in high-speed internet access, particularly for activities like streaming and online gaming, could be contributing to increasing obesity rates in Australia. The study, published in Economics & Human Biology, was conducted in collaboration with The University of Melbourne and RMIT University. It analyzed data from the Household, Income and Labour Dynamics in Australia (HILDA) survey, covering the period from 2006 to 2019, to explore the relationship between access to high-speed internet and obesity.

 

Obesity, which significantly raises the risk of chronic health issues such as cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, and type 2 diabetes, has become a major public health concern in Australia. In 2022, nearly two-thirds (65.8%) of Australian adults were classified as overweight or obese. The financial burden of obesity is also substantial; in 2018, obesity-related costs were estimated at $11.8 billion, and this figure is projected to rise to $87.7 billion by 2032.

 

The Link Between Internet and Sedentary Behaviour

 

The study, led by Senior Author Dr. Klaus Ackermann from Monash Business School’s Department of Econometrics and Business Statistics, suggests that the widespread use of high-speed internet has created a shift towards more sedentary lifestyles. Dr. Ackermann explains that increased access to fast internet encourages individuals to stay online for longer periods, leading to decreased physical activity and more time spent sitting.

 

"With high-speed internet, people tend to spend more time engaged in sedentary activities like binge-watching television shows, online gaming, or socializing via digital platforms, which reduces their overall physical activity," Dr. Ackermann said. "This sedentary behaviour lowers metabolic rates and contributes to weight gain. The easy access to online shopping and services also reduces the need for physical errands, further limiting opportunities for physical activity."

 

Additionally, the act of sitting for long periods often leads to increased snacking, which further contributes to higher calorie consumption and weight gain.

 

The Economic and Health Implications

 

The study found a clear correlation between greater access to high-speed internet and higher obesity rates. Specifically, a one percent increase in the adoption rate of the National Broadband Network (NBN) was associated with an increase of 1.57 kg/m² in Body Mass Index (BMI) and a 6.6 percent rise in obesity prevalence. This suggests that as internet access improves, people are spending more time sitting and engaging in low-energy activities, which negatively impacts their health.

 

Recommendations for Addressing the Issue

 

The findings highlight the importance of addressing the growing link between internet use and obesity. Dr. Ackermann emphasizes the need for public health campaigns that raise awareness about the risks of prolonged sedentary behaviour. He suggests encouraging individuals to take regular breaks from screen time and to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines.

 

"One key approach could be promoting awareness of how internet usage contributes to sedentary behaviour and encouraging people to balance screen time with physical activity," Dr. Ackermann said. "Simple actions, such as taking short breaks for walking or stretching, could help mitigate some of the negative effects. Public health campaigns could also focus on encouraging people to perform errands physically rather than relying solely on online services."

 

Dr. Ackermann also advocates for promoting brief, high-intensity physical activities that meet daily health requirements, especially for individuals with busy schedules. "Even short bursts of vigorous exercise can be highly effective in improving metabolism and preventing obesity," he added.

 

Conclusion

 

While high-speed internet has become an essential service in modern life, this study underscores its potential role in the rising rates of obesity in Australia. As internet usage becomes more ingrained in daily life, it is important to raise awareness of its health implications and encourage healthier habits that incorporate physical activity to counterbalance the sedentary lifestyle it can promote.