Title: Just 22 Minutes of Daily Exercise Can Significantly Reduce Risk of 19 Chronic Diseases
Meta Description: Discover how a new study from the University of Iowa found that exercising for just 22 minutes a day can dramatically lower your risk of conditions like heart disease, diabetes, and cancer.
Article:
A groundbreaking study by the University of Iowa has revealed that engaging in a mere 22 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise each day can substantially reduce the risk of developing 19 chronic diseases. These include life-threatening conditions like cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases.
The research, conducted by a team led by Professor Lucas Carr, analysed data from over 7,000 patients who visited the university’s medical center between 2017 and 2022, and compared it with data from another 33,000 people who hadn’t been screened for physical activity.
The study found that individuals who exercised for at least 150 minutes a week, roughly 22 minutes a day, had a statistically significant lower risk of developing the aforementioned conditions. Conversely, those who exercised less than this amount were found to have a higher risk of developing these health issues, including valvulopathy, obesity, depression, and hypertension.
To facilitate quick and easy assessment of patients’ physical activity levels, the research team developed the Exercise Vital Sign Survey. This survey consists of just two questions, which can be answered in as little as 30 seconds.
The questionnaire asks:
- On average, how many days per week do you engage in moderate to vigorous exercise (such as brisk walking)?
- On average, how many minutes do you spend exercising at this intensity per session?
The findings align with the World Health Organization‘s (WHO) guidelines, which recommend 150-300 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75-150 minutes of vigorous-intensity aerobic exercise per week for adults aged 18-64.
These results underscore the importance of regular physical activity in preventing chronic diseases and support WHO’s recommendation that healthcare providers encourage their patients to engage in regular exercise. The authors of the study urge all individuals, provided they are in good health, to incorporate physical activity into their daily routines.
Sources:
- University of Iowa
- World Health Organization
- Preventing Chronic Disease (CDC)
Keep reading