Age 36: When Hidden Health Damage Comes to Light
A new study suggests that the harmful effects of unhealthy habits, such as smoking, drinking, and lack of exercise, begin to appear as early as age 36.
About the Study
Researchers from the University of Jyvaskyla in Finland tracked around 370 residents of the city of Jyvaskyla for more than 30 years. The participants’ health data was collected through surveys and medical tests at ages 27, 36, 42, 50, and 61.
The findings, published in the journal Annals of Medicine, reveal that three unhealthy behaviours smoking, heavy drinking, and physical inactivity significantly affect both physical and mental health starting in the mid-30s.
Early Warning Signs at 36
Traditionally, it has been well-known that unhealthy behaviours in the 40s and 50s increase the risk of developing serious health conditions later in life.
However, this study shows that the negative effects are already visible by the age of 36. In fact, researchers observed that the association between unhealthy habits and poor health outcomes remained steady from ages 36 to 61.
The Role of Different Habits
Importantly, the study highlights how different behaviours affect health:
- Lack of exercise was mainly linked to poor physical health.
- Smoking was closely associated with poorer mental health.
- Heavy alcohol consumption impacted both mental and physical health significantly.
Moreover, over time, these habits were found to worsen depressive symptoms and increase risks related to metabolism, such as obesity and diabetes.
Why Early Intervention Matters
Lead researcher Tiia Kekalainen from the Gerontology Research Center at the University of Jyvaskyla emphasized the importance of acting early.
“Our findings underline the need to address risky behaviours like smoking, heavy drinking, and physical inactivity as early as possible,” she explained.
By taking action sooner, it is possible to prevent the long-term damage these habits cause, which can accumulate and lead to serious health problems in later life.
Conclusion
In summary, the study provides clear evidence that unhealthy behaviours start affecting health much earlier than previously thought. Therefore, making healthier choices in young adulthood is not just beneficial, it is essential for long-term mental and physical well-being.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
