Monday, February 21, 2011
Exercise can prevent heart disease
Last week in this column, as part of American Heart Month, we discussed what to do if you experience heart attack symptoms.
This week is an opportunity to talk about steps to take so you never end up in that situation.
And “steps” is a key word. One of the most important things you can do is exercise.
Exercising daily, even if you don’t start until midlife, can help improve survival rates into your 70s.
There is a strong and positive association between physical activity and living a longer, healthier life.
Moderate physical activity, including brisk walking, reduces risks of chronic disease, reduces the loss of cognitive function, physical function and improves mental health.
It is encouraging that studies show even starting moderate exercise in midlife can improve your life over the long-term.
As life expectancy continues to rise — in 1900 the average life expectancy was 47.3, in 2005 in was 80.4 for women and 75.2 for men — it is important to take steps to improve your health.
By 2030, 1 in 5 people will be 65 or older, and the healthier people are the better off they will be -- and the better off society will be as a whole.
Whether it is full-fledged gym or workouts in your home or outdoors, the key is to establish a consistent exercise routine.
They say an apple a day keeps the doctor away. Exercising daily might just help keep the cardiologist away.
John Foley, MD, is a cardiologist on The William W. Backus Hospital Medical Staff, a member of Cardiology Associates of Norwich and on the faculty at Yale University School of Medicine. This column should not replace advice or instruction from your personal physician. If you want to comment on this column or others, visit the Healthy Living blog at www.backushospital.org/backus-blogs or e-mail Dr. Foley or any of the Healthy Living columnists at healthyliving@wwbh.org
