The American Heart Association (AHA) has released a scientific statement addressing the lack of physical activity opportunities for many individuals, particularly those at high risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). The statement emphasizes that even a simple 20-minute walk can help address CVD risk disparities.
Less than 25% of adults engage in the recommended 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week. Certain groups, including older individuals, people with disabilities, Black people, those with lower socioeconomic status, and individuals with mental health challenges, are at a higher risk of cardiovascular problems.
Barriers to Exercise in High-Risk Groups
The AHA calls for greater involvement by healthcare providers in their patients' exercise habits and urges local and national government entities to provide equitable infrastructure support. The goal is to create a coalition that prioritizes activity levels and allocates resources to help high-risk groups incorporate physical activity into their daily lives.
The Role of Healthcare Providers in Promoting Physical Activity
COVID risk factors, such as obesity, hypertension, diabetes, high cholesterol, and smoking, are linked to a lack of physical activity, further increasing the risk. The statement highlights barriers to exercise in both urban and rural areas, including a lack of sidewalks, access to recreational facilities, and walking routes, as well as issues like air pollution and extreme temperatures in some regions.
Resources and Support for Patients' Physical Activity Goals
Physicians and healthcare providers play a crucial role in bridging the gap between the health benefits of exercise and patient outcomes. They should inquire about patients' physical activity habits and encourage any level of physical activity. Healthcare providers themselves should lead by example and stay physically active.
Beyond the doctor's office, healthcare providers should help patients achieve their activity goals by informing them about available resources, such as free public spaces, fitness professionals, and low-cost physical activity groups. The statement also highlights the need for more aggressive legislation and education at the local and national level to promote exercise and improve access to physical activity.
Dr. Lee suggests regular physical education in schools, insurance coverage for counseling on physical activity, support for workplace physical activity, and dedicated bike lanes. Dr. Arciero emphasizes the importance of evidence-based recommendations from leading healthcare organizations and the implementation of multidimensional approaches, including individualized interventions, mobile technologies, clinic- and community-based programs, and group-based programs.
Taking Collective Action for Cardiovascular Health
Overall, the AHA's statement aims to raise awareness about the lack of physical activity opportunities and the associated CVD risk disparities, urging stakeholders to take collective action to promote exercise and improve cardiovascular health for all Americans.