The findings come from nearly 8,000 adults taking part in the 1970 British cohort study that spans more than 50 years of life.
Around one-in-three of this group of people aged 46 to 48 had two or more chronic health conditions – that includes issues such as recurrent back problems, mental ill health, and high blood pressure as well as risky drinking. Although obesity was not recorded as a health condition, it was measured as a possible risk factor and did appear to be linked to diabetes and high blood pressure.
Experts advise that even in later life, adopting healthy choices, such as eating a good diet, limiting alcohol intake, quitting smoking and getting regular exercise, can make a difference.