Global physical activity levels - Need for intervention

Prog Cardiovasc Dis. 2019 Mar-Apr;62(2):102-107. doi: 10.1016/j.pcad.2019.02.004. Epub 2019 Feb 22.

Abstract

Substantial evidence shows that physical inactivity (PI) and sedentary behavior (SB) increases the risk of many chronic diseases and shortens life expectancy. We describe evidence that certain domains of physical activity (PA) in the United States (US) population have declined substantially over 5 decades. The prevalence of PI is very high worldwide, which has contributed to 6%-10% of the burden of many chronic diseases and premature mortality. Reduction or elimination of PI would likely produce substantial increases in life expectancy of the world's population. Great efforts are needed to reduce PI and SB and increase levels of PA in the US and worldwide.

Keywords: Cardiovascular disease; Exercise; Physical activity; Physical inactivity.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / physiopathology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / prevention & control
  • Cardiovascular Diseases* / psychology
  • Chronic Disease* / epidemiology
  • Chronic Disease* / prevention & control
  • Exercise
  • Global Health / trends*
  • Humans
  • Life Expectancy
  • Prevalence
  • Preventive Health Services / organization & administration*
  • Risk Factors
  • Sedentary Behavior*