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Effects of smoking, drinking and lack of exercise hit at this age

Bad health habits such as smoking and drinking can impact health from your mid-30s
Bad health habits such as smoking and drinking can impact health from your mid-30s (Getty Images)
  • Unhealthy habits like smoking, excessive drinking, and lack of exercise can negatively impact health as early as age 36.
  • A 30-year Finnish study found that these habits worsen both mental and physical health, increasing risks of depression, metabolic issues, and lower self-rated health.
  • The cumulative effect of these habits over time leads to more significant health problems by age 61.
  • Researchers emphasise the importance of addressing these behaviors early in adulthood and midlife to prevent long-term health consequences.
  • However, it's never too late to adopt healthier habits, which can still benefit health in later years.
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