Exercise and Chronic Diseases

Physical inactivity (PA) is fourth on the list of leading causes of deaths worldwide. An increased level of PA and exercise will not only reduce the risk for developing various chronic diseases, but also have a positive influence on morbidity and mortality resulting from these chronic diseases. While overwhelming success have been achieved in disease control through environmental interventions such as vaccinations and improved hygiene to increase life expectancy, many authorities in the field of preventative healthcare are of the opinion that too little has been done to target behavioral factors, particularly physical inactivity. PA promotion is one of the first treatment and management recommendations in a large number of ever-increasing evidence based clinical guidelines for many chronic conditions.