[Physical inactivity: a modifiable risk factor in primary prevention?].

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND AIM: Physical inactivity is an important risk factor for cardiovascular disease and for increased cardiovascular mortality. The aim of this review article was to demonstrate whether increased physical activity can safely reduce the increased cardiovascular mortality due to physical inactivity. A further aim was to derive recommendations for physical activity. METHODS: The effect of physical activity on indirect and direct cardiovascular parameters and clinical endpoints was analyzed by means of an inquiry of the literature. RESULTS: Physical inactivity is an important risk factor for cardiovascular and overall mortality. Many epidemiologic studies could demonstrate with high consistency that regular physical activity is associated with a lower cardiovascular mortality and overall mortality. There is an inverse relationship between physical activity and mortality. Even moderate physical activity (30 min brisk walking or 15 min jogging) on most days of the week can increase the wellness and reduce the cardiovascular and overall mortality. CONCLUSIONS: Regular physical activity can contribute to an enormous health benefit in the general population. Therefore the promotion of adequate physical activity should be a major aim of the policy of health.