Scientists from Laurea University in Finland conducted a study on the impacts that unhealthy vices, like smoking, heavy drinking and lack of exercise, have on your body.

Researchers tracked the health of hundreds of children born in 1959 up until the age of 61, and they discovered that those who consistently smoked, drank and lounged around in their younger years ended up sicker and more depressed.

Most notably, their health started to decline at the ripe old age of 36.

“Our findings highlight the importance of tackling risky health behaviours as early as possible to prevent damage from building up over the years,” said Dr Tiia Kekäläinen.

“Bad habits in youth culminate in poor mental and physical health later in later life.

“Heart disease and cancer cause almost three-quarters of deaths worldwide. But by following a healthy lifestyle, an individual can cut their risk of developing these illnesses and reduce their odds of an early death.

“It is never too late to change to healthier habits. Adopting healthier habits in midlife also has benefits for older age.”