According to the CDC, physical Activity is one of the best things people can do to improve their health. It is vital for healthy aging and can reduce the burden of chronic diseases and prevent early death. Active people generally live longer and are at less risk for serious health problems like heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, and some cancers. For people with chronic diseases, physical activity can help manage these conditions and complications. For more information on why physical activity matters, what CDC is doing to educate the public about the benefits of physical activity, and how CDC’s work is making a difference, explore the options below.
Here are some statistics & info according to the CDC:
- Getting enough physical activity could prevent 1 in 10 premature deaths
- Physical activity prevents, 1 / 8 cases of breast cancer, 1 / 8 cases of colorectal cancer, 1 / 12 cases of diabetes, 1 /15 cases of heart disease
- Benefits for Children: reduces risk of depression, improves aerobic fitness, improves muscular fitness, improves bone health, promotes favorable body composition, Improves attention and some measures of academic performance (with school physical activity programs)
- Benefits for Adults: lowers risk of high blood pressure, lowers risk of stroke, improves aerobic fitness, improves mental health, improves cognitive function, reduces arthritis symptoms, prevents weight gain
- Benefits for Healthy Aging: improves sleep, reduces risk of falling, improves balance, improves joint mobility, extends years of active life, helps prevent weak bones and muscle loss, delays onset of cognitive decline
- About 1 in 4 young adults is too heavy to serve in our military