A University of Iowa study highlights that engaging in a minimum of 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise weekly can reduce the risk of 19 chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, and cancer. Led by Lucas Carr, the study analyzed data from over 7,000 patients and found that those who maintained this activity level had significantly lower chances of developing chronic conditions compared to those who were physically inactive. The researchers advocate for healthcare providers to inquire about patients’ exercise habits and recommend connecting inactive patients to wellness resources. They noted a gap in routine physical activity screening within U.S. hospital systems, particularly in the Midwest. The “Exercise Vital Sign” survey, which takes less than 30 seconds to complete, assesses how often and for how long patients engage in physical activity. Comparative analyses revealed that patients willing to complete the survey were generally younger and healthier. Moreover, another study showed a high reimbursement rate for insurance claims submitted for exercise counseling, suggesting that incorporating physical activity support could be beneficial. The findings, published in Preventing Chronic Disease, emphasize the importance of integrating physical activity discussions into routine healthcare to aid chronic disease prevention.
