Recent study revealed that despite the various health campaigns started by government there has been decrease in number of people adhering to habits that constitute healthy lifestyle.

Research team from The Department of Family Medicine, Medical University of South Carolina analyzed various studies done from 1988 to 1994, and 2001 to 2006.

Data analysis showed that the percentage of adults aged 40-74 years with a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30 has increased from 28% to 36%. Percentage of people exercising three times a week or more has decreased from 53% to 43%. The number of people eating five portions of fruit and vegetables a day has declined to 40%. Moreover the number of people following all five "healthy habits" has decreased from 15% to 8%.

Lead author Dana King said: “The potential public health benefits from promoting a healthier lifestyle at all ages, and especially ages 40-74 years, are substantial.”

In the US, medical costs due to physical inactivity and its consequences are estimated at $76 billion in 2000 dollars.