The silent killer: circulatory diseases cause one-third of deaths

By: Trademagazin Date: 2025. 06. 03. 10:59

As our lives become more and more comfortable, we expose ourselves to invisible dangers that can cause serious health problems in the long run. One of these, underestimated by many, but extremely harmful phenomena: a sedentary lifestyle. According to research, prolonged sitting is an independent risk factor: it increases the risk of cardiovascular diseases, varicose veins, thrombosis, obesity, and even mental problems – even if we exercise or are active at other times of the day. But there is a way out, here are Dr. Kelen’s expert tips for prevention.

One of the biggest problems is that blood circulation slows down in the lower extremities when sitting. The functioning of varicose veins in the legs is basically helped by the muscle pump – when we walk, move our calves, the blood returns to the heart more easily. When we sit for a long time, this pump mechanism is turned off, and the blood starts to stagnate. This initially causes milder symptoms such as tension, pain, and leg swelling, but over time it can also lead to more serious problems: varicose veins, inflammation, and even thrombosis.

In Hungary, the situation is particularly serious. In the European Union, diseases of the circulatory system were responsible for 32.7 percent of all deaths in 2020, or 1.7 million deaths. Hungary ranked second in this statistic: there were 3,812 heart attacks per million inhabitants. According to detailed data from the Central Statistical Office (KSH), circulatory diseases continue to be the leading cause of death in our country.

Inactivity also affects the muscular system and metabolism. Muscle inactivity accelerates the deterioration, and decreased energy expenditure increases the risk of obesity and type 2 diabetes. Obesity also carries additional risks: high blood pressure, high blood fat levels, joint wear and tear, reflux diseases, and even the risk of developing certain cancers (such as colon and rectal cancer and breast cancer).

It’s not just physically harmful, it’s also mentally harmful

Sitting for long periods of time also has an impact on our mental state: reduced oxygen supply and cerebral blood flow can lead to concentration problems, fatigue, and even mood disorders. The functioning of the body and mind is closely linked. When blood circulation slows down, the brain functions less optimally – many people experience this as afternoon lethargy, “brain fatigue”.