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The College of Family Physicians of Canada appreciates
the support of Health Canada for its Physical Activity and Health
Strategy.
Active living is key to
preventing many chronic diseases
Physical activity has decreased significantly over the past decade, in part
due to the advances of modern technology and many other factors in today’s
society that have fostered increasingly sedentary lifestyles among
Canadians.
Much of this generation’s children spend their recreational time sitting in
front of video games or a television set. Adults aren’t immune to the
allure of the television either, plus many now do a good majority of gift and
everyday shopping online while sitting in front of a computer, and drive-through
windows have made even the simplest activity of walking in and out of a store
nonessential.
While the majority of today’s population is aware of the tremendous positive
impact physical activity has on our health, 50 percent of Canadians continue to
lead inactive, unhealthy lifestyles.
According to the World Health Organization, a combination of improper diet,
insufficient physical activity and tobacco use are estimated to be the cause of
up to 80 percent of premature coronary heart disease. And, up to
one-third of cancers can be prevented by maintaining a healthy diet, normal
weight and physical activity throughout one’s life.
The Chronic Disease Prevention Alliance of Canada
estimates that two-thirds of Canadians have at least one modifiable risk
factor, which puts them at risk for chronic disease.
These risk factors include: physical
inactivity, unhealthy eating habits, high blood pressure, and high blood
cholesterol.
Many people already know that the risk of osteoporosis, cardiovascular
disease, cancer, diabetes and some mental health disorders are reduced among
those who participate in regular physical activities.
But, physical activity also plays an important role in reducing anxiety,
depression and tension, and has positive effects on the emotional states of both
young and old persons. And, in children, physical activity has been
shown to increase self-esteem, better enabling them to handle mental and
emotional stress and attain higher academic achievements.
Overcoming Barriers
Ultimately, patients make their own personal decisions as to the level of
physical activity they pursue in their lives – but including physical activity
into day-to-day routines may be easier than most people think.
Most people think that physical activity means going to a gym or intense
aerobic classes, when, in fact, any regular moderate level of activity will
produce health benefits.
Just 30 minutes a day of moderate activity can contribute great health
benefits to those who normally lead sedentary lifestyles. Studies have
proven that 30 to 60 minutes of walking four or five days a week can
significantly reduce the incidence and mortality of cardiovascular disease.
Even everyday activities like washing the car or raking the lawn can
contribute to a healthy body.
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