Physical inactivity is a major modifiable risk factor for coronary heart disease, accounting for 37% of CHD deaths and doubling the risk of developing or dying from the condition.
Over the past 40 years, evidence has accumulated on the role of physical activity in preventing and treating coronary heart disease (CHD). The findings are consistent and show that sedentary people have about twice the risk of developing or dying from CHD, compared to active people. The evidence is compelling and has established physical inactivity as one of the major modifiable risk factors for CHD. A recent analysis suggests that 37% of deaths from CHD are attributable to physical inactivity; this is second only to raised blood cholesterol.1 Despite this, few doctors appear to realize the extent of the benefits of regular exercise, nor are they aware of current recommendations relating to it.2 This article reviews the evidence for, and mechanisms by which physical activity confers benefit, as well as the main health messages and ways in which people can be helped to become more active. Throughout the paper, physical activity means all activity at work and leisure, including sport. Exercise means formal training‐type activities, which can also include sport. The benefits of regular exercise include3 improvement in myocardial contraction and its electrical stability, and an increase in stroke volume at rest and during exercise, leading to a higher maximal cardiac output. Heart rate is decreased at rest, and at any given level of submaximal cardiac output. Endothelial function is improved, leading to better flow–mediated dilatation. In addition, the diameter and dilatory capacity of coronary arteries are increased, as is collateral formation. Regular exercise also has effects on the tendency of blood to clot. Changes include reduced platelet aggregation and increased fibrinolytic activity, possibly resulting from lower levels of plasminogen activator inhibitor‐1. In addition, regular physical activity lowers inflammatory factors such as plasma fibrinogen concentrations, C‐reactive protein and white cell count. Metabolic adaptations include stimulation of lipid …
Press et al. (Sat,) conducted a review in Coronary heart disease. Physical activity vs. Sedentary lifestyle was evaluated on Developing or dying from coronary heart disease. Physical inactivity is a major modifiable risk factor for coronary heart disease, accounting for 37% of CHD deaths and doubling the risk of developing or dying from the condition.