Burden, trends, and predictions of low physical activity-related diseases in China: analysis from the Global Burden of Disease Study, 1990–2021, with projections to 2035

From 1990 to 2021, the age-standardized death and DALY rates associated with low physical activity in China declined, yet the absolute number of deaths and DALYs increased due to population growth and aging. Special attention is needed for diabetes and ischemic heart disease, as their burdens have significantly risen. Although females are more affected by low physical activity than males, the increase in the burden among males has been more pronounced in recent years. The impact of low physical activity intensifies with age, particularly among the older adult. Thus, targeted strategies are essential to mitigate the burden of low physical activity in China.