Millions of Brits with long-term illnesses have ‘no excuse for being inactive’, health chiefs say

MILLIONS of Brits with long-term illnesses have no excuse for being inactive, health chiefs claim.

Cancer, dementia and diabetes patients are among those being told to move more.

Sport England and 15 charities say all could boost their mental and physical health by exercising. They will push the benefits of exercise in new TV and social media adverts launching today.

The commercials feature sick patients and show even a walk around the house can be beneficial. One in four people in England – 15million in total – are living with at least one long-term illness.

This includes cancer, dementia, diabetes, asthma, Parkinson’s, arthritis, stroke and depression. The ads come as new research reveals 69 per cent of these patients would like to be more active.

But they are twice as likely as healthy people to move for less than half an hour a week. Many blame pain and a lack of energy, the poll of 1,303 long-term ill found.

Tim Hollingsworth, of Sport England, said: “Whatever kind of health challenge you’re facing, there’s always some form of activity that will suit you. Even small amounts can make a big difference.”

The adverts form part of a wider campaign called We Are Undefeatable, which aims to get people active “in a way that is right for them”.

Every GP surgery and pharmacy has been sent guidance on how to encourage people to exercise. It marks the first time Sport England and the charities have worked together.

Zoe Williams, a GP in London, said: “The evidence base for physical activity in the management of long-term conditions is extremely compelling.

“Even small amounts of regular physical activity can significantly improve people’s health and their mental well-being.”

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