In a recent study from China, researchers discovered that if women spend more than six hours sitting every day, they are more likely to develop uterine fibroids before they reach menopause. Uterine fibroids are growths in the uterus that can cause various health issues for women

Dr. Qiong Meng from Kunming Medical University in Kunming, China, leads the research, indicating that a more sedentary lifestyle doubles the risk of developing these often painful and troublesome uterine growths before menopause in women.

The connection between a 'couch potato' lifestyle and obesity appears to be a contributing factor, as previous studies have established obesity as a risk factor for uterine fibroids, the team noted.

The study highlights the association between sedentary lifestyles, obesity, and elevated levels of circulating oestrogen, along with other hormones known to contribute to fibroids. Additionally, prolonged periods of inactivity can lead to vitamin D deficiencies, another risk factor for these growths.

Published on Nov. 29 in the journal BMJ Open, the findings emphasise the prevalence of uterine fibroids, which are benign tumours commonly found in women. While some women may experience no symptoms, others may face issues such as abnormal bleeding, pelvic and abdominal pain, and adverse reproductive outcomes, including infertility. In severe cases, a hysterectomy may be recommended.

The study, which involved over 6,600 Chinese women aged 30 to 55 who had not yet undergone menopause, revealed that 8.5% of the participants developed fibroids, with an increasing occurrence as women aged. Factors such as weight, having two or more children, and sedentary behaviour were linked to a higher risk of fibroids.