Workers who sat for 11 hours or more a day were 40% more likely to die within three years compared with people who sat for less than four hours a day, according to new research.

People who sat for eight to 11 hours a day had a 15% increased risk of dying within three years.

The research tracked more than 222,000 people above the age of 45 in New South Wales over a three year period.

Researchers said said the study was one of many pointing to links between long periods of sitting and serious illness, including heart disease, diabetes and cancer.