PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FUNDAMENTAL TO PREVENT DISEASES
Regular physical activity, fitness, and exercise are critically important for the health and well being of people of all ages. Research has demonstrated that virtually all individuals can benefit from regular physical activity, whether they participate in vigorous exercise or some type of moderate health-enhancing physical activity. Even among frail and very old adults, mobility and functioning can be improved through physical activity. Therefore, physical fitness should be a priority for Americans of all ages. Regular physical activity has been shown to reduce the morbidity and mortality from many chronic diseases. Millions of Americans suffer from chronic illnesses that can be prevented or improved through regular physical activity: 12.6 million people have coronary heart disease 1.1 million people suffer from a heart attack in a given year; 17 million people have diabetes; about 90% to 95% of cases are type 2 diabetes, which is associated with obesity and physical inacti...