Currently, non-communicable chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), They are responsible for the deaths of 41 million people worldwide.
Among these diseases, a sedentary lifestyle stands out as one of the most important risk factors. Of the 41 million people who die, 15 million are between 30 and 65 years oldan age considered the most productive in life.
Simply put, physical activity acts in a systemic way and provides benefits for each age group: apart from those known for the cardiovascular systemit is proven that it improves children’s school performance; In older adults it prevents falls and increases their autonomy. And it provides benefits in the field of psychiatry since it prevents depression and cognitive deterioration.
Historically, the human body adapted to meet basic needs such as eating and moving around. However, in the last six decades, Comfortable living began to hinder this adaptation around the world, contributing to increased sedentary lifestyles and, consequently, a lower quality of life, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Physical activity should begin in childhood. This improves not only school performance, but also social relationships and discipline.
It is important to distinguish between physical activity, exercise and sport. Physical activity involves any movement of the body that consumes energy, while exercise is an organized and structured movement. Sport, on the other hand, involves rules, competition and an additional emotional burden. «The key is to move regularly, regardless of age or illness, as movement always offers benefits for cardiovascular health»points out in SAY, Sonia Costantinidoctor specializing in cardiology.
What are the numbers in the region:
The latest National Risk Factor Survey does not show encouraging results for the Patagonian region. 44.2% of the population has a low prevalence for practicing some physical activity. The situation in the region reflects a worrying trend regarding low physical activity among its inhabitants. When breaking down the data by province, Santa Cruz has one of the highest rates of physical inactivity, at 54.7%. Río Negro follows closely with 49.6%. Neuquen and Tierra del Fuego also show striking figures, with a 43.2% and 38.7% respectively. Chubut has the lowest rate within the region, with 34.3% of its population with low physical activity.
- 43.2%
- is the percentage of low prevalence of physical activity in Neuquén.
- 49.6%
- It is the percentage of low prevalence of physical activity in Río Negro.
At the national level, the situation is not much better. The prevalence of low physical activity in the total population of Argentina is 44.2%, with provinces such as San Juan and San Luis showing the lowest inactivity rates at 23.2% and 38.9% respectively. In contrast, Chaco and Formosa have the worst records with 57.3% and 69.1% respectively.
The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends a minimum of 350 minutes of physical activity per week, something that most schools fail to achieve. The lack of physical activity in school spaces contributes to sedentary lifestyle and its associated risks. “In Argentina, the rate of childhood obesity reaches around 41.1%. In August 2023, the Argentine Federation of Cardiology (FAC) joined a national campaign to raise awareness about the importance of reducing sedentary lifestyle in children and encouraging physical activity,” adds the professional.
Proper nutrition is equally essential. A varied diet low in sugar and sodium is key to healthy development and the prevention of chronic non-communicable diseases.
Listen to Sonia Costantini on RÍO NEGRO RADIO:
More on DIGO:
This information was expanded by Sonia Costantini, a cardiology specialist, in her regular column “In line with your Heart” which is broadcast every Tuesday on DIGO, on RÍO NEGRO RADIO, starting at 1 pm.
We invite you to listen to it, send your questions and clear up doubts. You can also listen to all the audio spaces with information linked to cardiovascular problems at rionegro.com.ar/digo.
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