Physical Inactivity – Our Hidden Enemy

Dr. Balbir Singh, Chairman – Cardiac Sciences, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket

Physical inactivity is an established risk factor for premature mortality and several non-communicable diseases. It was estimated that in 2008, that physical inactivity caused 6%–10% of the cases of premature mortality, coronary heart disease, diabetes, breast cancer and colon cancer globally.

An increasing number of epidemiological studies have shown that low physical activity (PA) is a strong independent risk factor for cardiovascular mortality which continues to be the number 1 cause of death.

Physical activity exerts a protective effect on the incidence and mortality of cardiovascular disease mainly achieved through its positive influence on the risk factors, such as weight gain, hypertension, glucose tolerance and dyslipidemia.

Findings from a large study involving 1,584,181 people suggest that any intensity of physical activity would still reduce the risk of heart related deaths .

In 2018, the World Health Assembly (WHA) approved a new Global Action Plan on Physical Activity (GAPPA) 2018–2030 and adopted a new voluntary global target to reduce global levels of physical inactivity in adults and adolescents by 15% by 2030.

The key messages by WHO are that some physical activity is better than none and that more is better for optimal health outcomes. All adults should undertake regular physical activity and should aim to achieve at least 150min of moderate-intensity or 75min of vigorous-intensity aerobic physical activity per week, Among children and adolescents, an average of 60min/day of moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity across the week (most of which should be aerobic), leads to health benefits. Furthermore, the guidelines continue to reinforce the value of muscle-strengthening activity for all adults and children.

Given that the most recent global estimates show that one in four (27.5%) adults and more than three-quarters (81%) of adolescents do not meet the recommendations for aerobic exercise.

There are some risks of high intensity exercises however these risks can be managed by gradual increase in the amount and intensity of physical activity. individuals should start with small amounts of physical activity and gradually increase frequency, intensity and duration over time. In those over 65 or with a history of heart disease a discussion with your physician can be important.