Leisure-time physical activity improves health and prevents major diseases. Heavy occupational activity on the other hand has been shown to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. The aim of this study is to reveal how the amount and patterns of physical activity, sedentary time, and sleep during leisure-time and at work associate with health. The study population comprises more than 7,000 working-aged members of the Northern Finland Birth Cohorts 1966 and 1986. Their physical activity has been measured with activity monitors. Novel statistical methods are utilized to examine the codependent associations of 24-hour activity behaviors and health and risk of cardiovascular disease, lifestyle related cancers, and disease mortality in midlife. The study produces new knowledge about the independent roles of physical activity in leisure and occupational domains on health which can be used to plan effective interventions for occupational groups with high risk of lifestyle diseases.

2024

2027