Exercise in the Prevention and Treatment of Almost Every Chronic Disease

Exercise may be described as a ‘polypill’ to prevent and/or treat almost every chronic disease, with obvious benefits such as its low cost and practical lack of adverse effects. As opposed to exercise though, no drug intervention has proven efficient to maintain muscle fitness, a key factor to ensure independent living throughout all stages of life. But, how many people take advantage of the benefits of physical activity and exercise? Overall, there is a low prevalence of meeting the current physical activity guidelines in all age, sex and race/ethnic groups. Among adults the prevalence of meeting the aerobic component of the guidelines is approximately 51%., whereas only 27% of high school students meet the aerobic component of the pediatric guidelines (60 minutes of daily moderate-to-vigorous activity).

Over the past three decades, cardiorespiratory fitness has emerged as a strong predictor of all-cause and disease-specific mortality. The evidence supporting the predictive use of cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is so powerful that the American Heart Association recently advocated for the routine assessment of CRF as a clinical vital sign.

Cardiovascular and pulmonary diseases, diabetes and several forms of cancer are leading causes of death and poor health globally. Collectively, these conditions have a significant impact on the quality of life of individuals, families and communities, placing an unsustainable burden on health systems. There is hope for the chronic disease crisis in that these conditions are largely preventable or can be delayed to much later in life through a timeless medicine, healthy living.

Attend our upcoming classes to learn about healthy living including information about exercise, nutrition and more! The first in the series is January 23rd at our office and will discuss natural strategies to reduce pain.  Call 937-456-4555 to register.