A new study published in the journal Nature Communications has found that physical activity and a sedentary lifestyle have a greater impact on lifespan than our genes.

The study analyzed data from over 400,000 people in the UK Biobank database and found that individuals who engaged in regular physical activity had a lower risk of premature death, regardless of their genetic predisposition.

On the other hand, those who led a sedentary lifestyle, regardless of their genetic makeup, had a higher risk of premature death. "Our findings provide robust evidence that physical activity is more important for improving lifespan than our genetic makeup," said Dr. Carlos Celis-Morales, lead author of the study.

The study also found that even small increases in physical activity can have a significant impact on lifespan. Individuals who engaged in just 30 minutes of moderate exercise per day had a 28% lower risk of premature death compared to those who did not exercise at all.

The findings are particularly important given the rise of sedentary lifestyles in modern society, with many people spending long periods of time sitting at desks or in front of screens.

The study's authors suggest that public health initiatives should focus on promoting physical activity and reducing sedentary behavior, as this could have a greater impact on overall health and lifespan than genetics.

Overall, the study provides valuable insights into the importance of physical activity for our health and highlights the need for individuals to prioritize exercise in their daily lives.