Cohort Profile: HABITAT - A longitudinal multilevel study of physical activity, sedentary behaviour and health and functioning in mid-to-late adulthood: [

Extract]The benefits of physical activity in reducing the risk of non-communicable diseases are well documented. Physical inactivity contributes to 6–10% of the burden of coronary heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and breast and colon cancers. Physical activity helps reduce waist circumference, blood pressure and cholesterol, and may play a key role in the prevention and management of poor mental health.5 Recent evidence demonstrates that regular physical activity is particularly important for healthy ageing. Physical activity at older ages reduces the risk of falls, musculoskeletal conditions, disability and functional/cognitive decline, anxiety and depression; and promotes longevity, health-related quality of life and wellbeing. Thus, understanding the patterns, prevalence and determinants of physical activity participation is key to understanding population health and healthy ageing.