Lack of Physical Activity

Can a lack of physical activity hurt our health? Evidence shows that those who are not physically active are definitely not helping their health, and may likely be hurting it. The closer we look at the health risks associated with a lack of physical activity, the more convincing it is that Americans who are not yet regularly physically active should become active.

Much of the chronic disease burden in the United States is preventable. Physical inactivity and unhealthy eating contribute to obesity, cancer, heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Together, inactivity and unhealthy eating are responsible for at least 300,000 deaths each year. Only tobacco use causes more preventable deaths in the United States.

It is proven that when we avoid the behaviors that increase our risk for chronic diseases, we can expect to live healthier and longer lives.

CONTENT SOURCES:
www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/physical/importance/index.htm and
www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/aag/aag_dnpa.htm