Associations of lifestyles with major chronic diseases in Chinese adults: evidence from the China Kadoorie Biobank

Abstract

Major chronic diseases, including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and respiratory disease, cause substantial mortality and morbidity in China. Evidence from Western population showed that smoking, excessive alcohol intake, physical inactivity, unhealthful dietary habits and adiposity are independent risk factors for major chronic diseases. However, because of the vast differences in lifestyles and disease patterns, evidence from Western populations may not be generalizable to the Chinese population. Assessing the directions and magnitude of associations between lifestyles and major chronic diseases is crucial to evaluate the benefits yielded from lifestyle modifications, thus informing related guidelines. In recent years, prospective cohort studies in China, including the China Kadoorie Biobank (CKB), have shown relationships between unfavorable lifestyle factors and major chronic diseases. In particular, the CKB study has laid the evidence base for lifestyle factors (occupational physical activity) and diseases (hemorrhagic stroke, gastrointestinal cancers, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) unique to the Chinese population. This article aims to summarize the research findings on this topic.