Key result
Regular physical activity lowers cardiovascular disease risk by ~25% compared with physical inactivity.
Why the study?
Cardiovascular diseases remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide and are strongly associated with modifiable lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour.
Does physical activity reduce cardiovascular disease risk and mortality in adults?
Does physical activity reduce cardiovascular disease risk and mortality in adults?
Physical activity is a fundamental, cost-effective strategy for primary and secondary cardiovascular disease prevention that significantly reduces cardiovascular risk.
Supports activity counseling in prevention; extends prior syntheses on mechanisms and sedentary risks through 2024.
Background. Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) remain the leading cause of mortality worldwide and are strongly associated with modifiable lifestyle factors such as physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour. Aim. The aim of the review is to analyse the role of physical activity in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and to summarise the underlying physiological mechanisms responsible for its protective effects. Material and Methods. This study is based on a narrative review of scientific literature published between 1990 and 2024. The analysis included systematic reviews, meta-analysis, randomised controlled trials, and large cohort studies examining the relationship between physical activity and cardiovascular outcomes. Results. The findings indicate that regular physical activity significantly reduces cardiovascular risk by improving endothelial function, lowering blood pressure, enhancing lipid metabolism, increasing insulin sensitivity, and reducing systemic inflammation. Additionally, sedentary behaviour has been identified as an independent risk factor contributing to increased cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Conclusions. Physical activity plays a fundamental role in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases and should be promoted as a key component of both primary and secondary prevention. Reducing sedentary behaviour alongside increasing activity levels is essential for improving population health outcomes.
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Gabriela Lesiak (2026) conducted a review in Cardiovascular disease. Physical activity vs. Physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour was evaluated on Cardiovascular disease risk and mortality. Regular physical activity significantly reduces cardiovascular disease risk by approximately 20-30% compared to physical inactivity.
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