"Prevention of cardiovascular disease: why do we neglect the most potent intervention?
- Correspondence to: Emmanuel Stamatakis, Epidemiology and Public Health, University College London, 1-19 Torrington Place, London, WC1E 6BT, United Kingdom; e.stamatakis{at}ucl.ac.uk
- Received 14 October 2009
- Accepted 20 October 2009
- Published Online First 5 November 2009
Abstract
Despite a large volume of evidence supporting its cardio-protective properties and its numerous other established health benefits, physical activity is not a serious prescription option for the primary prevention of cardiovascular disease. On the other hand, health services increasingly focus on pharmacological prevention without considering properly the long-term consequences of medication. Ethical and feasibility considerations suggest that evidence on the protective value of physical activity may needs to be evaluated using criteria different to those applying to pharmacological trials. The collateral health benefits of physical activity prescription support its use as standard option in preventive health.
