We’ve all heard of a midlife crisis; people who are struggling with their own mortality and somewhere during midlife neglect some of their responsibilities in favour of fun and frivolity. But have you heard of a midlife health crisis?
In midlife over a third of us suffer from multiple long-term health problems. These include things like chronic back pain, high blood pressure, diabetes, asthma, arthritis, mental ill health and high-risk alcohol consumption. All issues that are prevalent in adults in their late forties.
A new study by UCL researchers and published in the BMC Public Health journal shows that among Generation X – adults born in 1970’s – those who grew up in poorer families are at much greater risk of having multiple long-term health problems in their late 40s. The research also reveals an association between physical and mental health conditions in childhood and adolescence, and chronic health problems in middle age.
Lead author, Dr Dawid Gondek (UCL Department of Epidemiology and Public Health) said:
“This study provides concerning new evidence about the state of the nation’s health in midlife. It shows that a substantial proportion of the population are already suffering from multiple long-term physical and mental health problems in their late 40s, and also points to stark health inequalities which appear to begin early in childhood.”
The researchers analysed data collected from a nationally representative group of around 8,000 British adults who have participated in the 1970 British Cohort Study (BCS70) since they were born, more than 50 years ago.
The study showed that by age 46-48, 34% of adults had multiple chronic health problems. These included:
- high-risk drinking (26%)
- recurrent back issues (21%)
- mental health problems (19%)
- high blood pressure (16%)
- asthma or bronchitis (12%)
- arthritis (8%)
- diabetes (5%)
How to avoid a midlife health crisis
If you’re worried about having a midlife health crisis there are steps you can take to improve your health.
Diet
- Stick to at least two alcohol-free nights a week and don’t drink more than 14 units of alcohol a week
- Reduce salt intake – eat no more than 6g of salt a day
- Limit saturated fats by switching from butter or coconut oil to olive oil or rapeseed oil – your heart will thank you
Exercise
- Walk or move outside daily for between five to 50 minutes – regular movement can help with back pain
- Try yoga or Pilates once a week – this improves mobility and core strength
- Spend less time in front of a screen – try and get up every 20 minutes
Lifestyle
- Take advantage of free routine screening appointments to check for diabetes, stroke, heart or kidney disease – those aged 40+ are eligible
- Stop smoking – this is the most significant change you can make for staying healthy
- Try NAD+ IV infusion therapy – boost your NAD+ levels with regular IV infusions to boost energy levels, improve cognitive function and strengthen your immune system
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