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Published on: Jul 22, 2020
2 minute read
By: Dr Rajan Choudhary

The Oxford Vaccine

Recently we wrote a blog on the success of an RNA vaccine against SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. Within just a few weeks of that incredible research breakthrough, researchers at Oxford University’s Jenner Institute have announced a COVID vaccine that has induced remarkable immune response against the virus.

This study was published in the Lancet, one of the most prestigious medical journals in the world, and a simple summary suggests the vaccine has no early safety concern and is able to induce a strong immune response with both T cells and B cell/antibodies.

THE VACCINE

ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, now known as AZD1222, was co-developed by the University of Oxford and one of its spin-off companies, Vaccitech. The vaccine uses a viral vector based on a common cold virus (adenovirus). This carries genetic material for the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein. In our previous blog, we saw how the spike proteins are used by the virus to target and fuse with our target cells, allowing the virus to invade, replicate and ultimately cause the disease known as COVID. It is also a good target for the human immune system to recognize and attack.

The viral vector delivers the genetic material inside our cells. The spike protein is then produced by our cells, recognized by the immune system as a viral target, and an immune response is created against it. This can be antibodies, which recognize, attach to and mark the virus in our blood, allowing for other white blood cells to destroy the virus.

In this case, the vaccine also produced a T cell response. T cells can recognize cells infected by a virus-based on the markers present on the surface of infected cells. They can tell an infected cell to destroy itself, thereby destroying the virus within without spreading the infection. They also have other functions that we will not discuss in this blog.

THE STUDY

This study was a Phase I/II trial that started in April using the vaccine named ChAdOx1 nCoV-19. This vaccine development started in January 2020, and progress on development has been incredibly rapid. Whilst our previous study had just 45 people, this study looked reviewed over 1,000 healthy adults. 10 of these participants received two doses of the vaccine.

In a study the more participants there are, the greater the power of the study. If the vaccine has any side effects, even ones that rarely occur, it is more likely to be picked up in studies with more people. Similarly having more people helps show that the vaccine is effective, and the strong responses are not merely a fluke or accident. Another benefit of this study is it was able to compare the vaccine against a control group. This shows the results were not simply a placebo and allowed comparison of side effects as well.

The majority of side effects were feeling feverish, chills, muscle ache, headache, and malaise, all symptoms treatable with paracetamol. None of the participants had any serious side effects. It took just 14 days to create a T cell response, and 28 days to make strong antibodies. In 91% of patients, this was enough to neutralize the COVID coronavirus. Receiving two doses gave an even stronger antibody response, and all participants were able to stop the virus.

WHAT NEXT

The news from the University of Oxford is needed, as infection rate and mortality continue to increase in countries such as the US and Brazil. The ability to induce an antibody response without causing harm to the patient shows we have made huge progress in the fight against COVID-19. Further Large scale Phase III trials been set up through a global partnership, and include studies in the US with over 30,000 patients, studies in children as well as some in low to middle-income countries.

If successful a vaccine would be essential in preventing a second wave of COVID in the winter when the elderly population is most at risk. And it would be the key to restarting the economy and getting our everyday lives back to where it was pre-pandemic.

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Health Risks of Sedentary Lifestyle: Why Sitting Too Much Can Harm Your Health

Modern lifestyles have become increasingly sedentary. With the rise of desk jobs, digital devices and long working hours, many individuals spend a significant portion of their day sitting. While technology and convenience have improved productivity, they have also contributed to reduced physical activity.

Understanding the health risks of a sedentary lifestyle is essential for preventing chronic diseases and maintaining overall wellbeing.

What Is a Sedentary Lifestyle?

A sedentary lifestyle refers to a pattern of behavior characterized by prolonged sitting or inactivity with minimal physical movement.

Common examples include:

Sitting at a desk for long hours
Watching television for extended periods
Spending significant time on computers or smartphones
Limited engagement in physical exercise

When the body remains inactive for long durations, various physiological functions may become impaired.

1. Increased Risk of Obesity

Physical inactivity reduces calorie expenditure.

When calorie intake exceeds the energy burned through activity, excess calories are stored as body fat.

This can lead to weight gain and increase the risk of obesity.

Obesity is a major risk factor for several chronic health conditions.

2. Higher Risk of Cardiovascular Disease

Prolonged sitting has been associated with increased risk of heart disease.

Sedentary behavior may contribute to:

Elevated blood pressure
Increased cholesterol levels
Reduced blood circulation

These factors increase the likelihood of cardiovascular complications over time.

3. Increased Risk of Type 2 Diabetes

Physical activity helps regulate blood sugar levels.

A sedentary lifestyle may impair the body’s ability to use insulin effectively, leading to insulin resistance.

Over time, this can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

4. Poor Metabolic Health

Metabolism refers to the body’s ability to convert food into energy.

Long periods of inactivity may slow metabolic processes and reduce the body’s efficiency in managing glucose and fat levels.

This can contribute to metabolic syndrome.

5. Musculoskeletal Problems

Sitting for extended periods can strain muscles and joints.

Common issues include:

Lower back pain
Neck stiffness
Shoulder discomfort
Poor posture

These problems are particularly common among office workers.

6. Reduced Mental Wellbeing

Physical activity plays a significant role in supporting mental health.

Sedentary behavior may contribute to:

Increased stress levels
Reduced mood
Lower energy levels

Regular movement helps improve mental wellbeing.

7. Increased Risk of Premature Mortality

Studies have shown that prolonged inactivity may increase the risk of early death due to chronic diseases.

Maintaining an active lifestyle significantly improves long-term health outcomes.

Sedentary Lifestyle in the Indian Context

Urbanization and technological advancements have led to more sedentary work environments in India.

Long commuting hours, desk-based professions and digital entertainment have reduced physical activity levels for many individuals.

As a result, lifestyle-related diseases such as diabetes and heart disease have increased significantly in recent years.

Public health initiatives now emphasize the importance of regular physical activity to counter these trends.

How to Reduce Sedentary Behavior

Take Frequent Movement Breaks

Stand up and stretch every 30–60 minutes during work.

Incorporate Walking into Daily Routine

Short walks during breaks can improve circulation and energy levels.

Use Active Workstations

Standing desks or adjustable workstations encourage movement.

Exercise Regularly

Engage in moderate physical activity such as walking, cycling or yoga.

Health guidelines recommend at least 150 minutes of exercise per week.

Limit Screen Time

Reducing recreational screen time encourages more active habits.

Benefits of an Active Lifestyle

Increasing daily physical activity provides several health benefits:

Improved cardiovascular health
Better weight management
Enhanced mental wellbeing
Stronger muscles and bones
Improved metabolic function

Even small lifestyle changes can make a significant difference over time.

When to Seek Medical Advice

Consult a healthcare professional if you experience:

Persistent back pain
Unexplained weight gain
Chronic fatigue
Signs of metabolic disorders

Early intervention can help manage health risks effectively.

Conclusion

A sedentary lifestyle may significantly impact physical and mental health. Prolonged sitting and lack of movement increase the risk of obesity, cardiovascular disease, diabetes and musculoskeletal problems.

Adopting an active lifestyle that includes regular movement, exercise and healthy habits is essential for maintaining overall wellbeing.

Simple changes such as standing frequently, walking regularly and engaging in physical activity can greatly reduce the health risks associated with sedentary behavior.

Maintaining an active lifestyle is one of the most effective ways to support long-term health and prevent chronic disease.

References

World Health Organization – Physical Activity Guidelines
Indian Council of Medical Research – Lifestyle Disease Reports
National Family Health Survey – Health and Lifestyle Data
Lancet Global Health – Sedentary Behavior Research
Journal of Preventive Medicine – Physical Activity Studies

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