Final answer:
Walking contributes to increased lifespan by offering health benefits such as improved cardiovascular health and reduced chronic disease risks, leading to almost four extra years of life. It also potentially lowers societal medical costs by reducing the burden of disease. A healthy lifestyle, encompassing exercise and diet, is vital for long-term health and economic advantages.
Step-by-step explanation:
Each mile walked by a sedentary person can contribute to an increased lifespan by promoting numerous health benefits, such as maintaining a healthy weight, improving cardiovascular health, and reducing the risk of chronic diseases like diabetes and cancer. The U.S. Department of Health and Human Services recommends regular physical activity, as exercising at 100 percent of their guidelines can result in a gain of almost four years of life. Furthermore, modest physical activity, such as walking, has been shown to lower heart attack rates by nearly 50 percent.
Beyond personal health, increased physical activity can have a profound impact on society's medical costs by potentially reducing the burden of disease and thereby decreasing healthcare expenditures. A healthier population with fewer chronic diseases could lead to lower shared healthcare costs and improved overall life expectancy. This suggests that promoting physical activity in sedentary individuals is not just beneficial for the individual's health but also for the economic well-being of society as a whole.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and healthy eating habits, is essential for individuals wanting to stay healthy and active into old age, thus maximizing their quality of life and potentially contributing to reduced societal healthcare costs.