Physical activity and reduction in chronic disease

Lifestyle is now the leading risk factor for early cardiovascular death and chronic disease worldwide, and it is estimated that 80-90% of our health is primarily based on individual lifestyle. Over the past few decades, the obesity rate has increased markedly in countries of both upper and lower socio-economic status, including BRICS countries. The two primary components of lifestyle are physical activity and diet. As work requirements push us towards a more sedentary lifestyle, it is critical that we try to maintain regular physical activity, including both moderate frequent daily short episodes to counter our stationary work habits and less frequent episodes of vigorous interval activity. To achieve this, an interdisciplinary approach including teamwork and integration between healthcare providers, exercise physiologists, and dietitians will be required. New healthy food options will be essential to helpus migrate away from our increasingly high intake of ultra-processed foods. In addition, populations musthave access to opportunities for safe physical activity. The Physical Activity and Sports Medicine fields must be positioned to lead this lifestyle transformation via population, government, and industry education.

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