Standing Desks May Not Offer Health Benefits, Research Suggests Increased Risks

Standing desks, often promoted as a remedy for prolonged sitting in the workplace, may not offer the health benefits many believe, according to new research. A study conducted by the University of Sydney reveals that standing for extended periods does not reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases like stroke and heart failure. Instead, it may increase the risk of circulatory issues such as varicose veins and blood clots.

The study, which analyzed data from over 80,000 adults in the UK, was published in the International Journal of Epidemiology. It found that standing for more than two hours daily could elevate the likelihood of conditions like deep vein thrombosis (DVT). For every additional 30 minutes spent standing beyond two hours, the risk of circulatory problems rose by 11%.

Dr. Matthew Ahmadi, a researcher from the University of Sydney, stressed that standing for long periods does not counteract the negative effects of a sedentary lifestyle. “We found that standing more does not improve cardiovascular health over time and can even pose risks to circulatory health,” Ahmadi explained.

Participants in the study wore movement-tracking devices, which revealed that standing offered no protective benefits against heart diseases like coronary heart disease or stroke.

Prof. Emmanuel Stamatakis, director of the Mackenzie Wearables Research Hub at the University of Sydney, suggested that people who spend extended periods sitting should incorporate regular movement throughout the day to reduce health risks. "Structured exercise and short, frequent breaks, such as walking around or taking the stairs, may be more effective at preventing cardiovascular diseases," he said.

Emily McGrath, a senior nurse at the British Heart Foundation, echoed the findings, highlighting the importance of staying active. She emphasized that while standing desks do not directly increase the risk of heart disease, they may contribute to other circulatory health issues. Regular movement remains crucial for overall health.