Summary
This GWAS of device-measured physical activity and sleep in over 91,000 UK Biobank participants identified 14 genetic loci, of which 7 were novel, explaining modest proportions of phenotypic variance but indicating high polygenicity. Heritability estimates were significantly higher in women than men for both overall activity and sedentary behaviours. Mendelian randomisation analysis provided evidence that increased physical activity may causally lower diastolic blood pressure and reduce hypertension risk, supporting the public health value of promoting physical activity.
UK applicability
This study was conducted in the UK Biobank and directly reflects genetic architecture and phenotypic relationships in the United Kingdom population. The findings support evidence-based recommendations for physical activity in UK public health policy and clinical practice.
Key measures
Heritability estimates (23% women vs 20% men for overall activity; 18% vs 15% for sedentary behaviour); genetic loci effect sizes; Mendelian randomisation estimates (beta −0.91 mmHg/SD for diastolic blood pressure; OR 0.84/SD for hypertension); phenotypic variance explained (~15% genome-wide, 0.06% by identified loci for activity, 0.39% for sleep)
Outcomes reported
The study identified 14 genetic loci associated with device-measured physical activity and sleep duration in 91,105 UK Biobank participants. Mendelian randomisation analysis suggested causal relationships between increased physical activity and lower blood pressure and reduced hypertension risk.
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