Attaining optimal physical activity for health
Physical inactivity is the fourth leading risk factor for global mortality. Globally, 6 percent of deaths are attributed to physical inactivity. It is estimated as being the principle cause for approximately 21–25 percent of breast and colon cancers, 27 percent of diabetes and 30 percent of heart disease burden.
Despite the enormous effects on health and large number of deaths, the level of physical inactivity is increasing in many developing countries including Bangladesh. With rapid unplanned urbanisation, reduction of the number of playgrounds, unhealthy environment and behaviour, the country has been experiencing rising number of people being affected and dying of non-communicable diseases like heart diseases, stroke, cancer, diabetes, obesity etc.
It has been shown that participation in regular physical activities reduces the risk of coronary heart disease and stroke, diabetes, hypertension, colon cancer, breast cancer, hip or vertebral fractures and depression. Additionally, physical activity is fundamental to energy balance, weight control and prevention of obesity.
Recognising the immense importance, World Health Organisation (WHO) has developed the "Global Recommendations on Physical Activity for Health". The recommendations set out for three age groups: 5–17 years old; 18–64 years old; and 65 years old and above.
5-17 years old
For children and young people, physical activity includes play games, sports, transportation (e.g. walking or cycling), chores, recreation, physical education, or planned exercise, in the context of family, school and community activities. They should accumulate at least 60 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity daily. Amounts of physical activity greater than 60 minutes provide additional health benefits.
18-64 years old
In adults aged 18–64, physical activity includes leisure time physical activity, transportation (e.g. walking or cycling), occupational (i.e. work), household chores, play, games, sports or planned exercise, in the context of daily, family, and community activities. They should do at least 150 minutes of moderately intense physical activity throughout the week or at least 75 minutes of vigorous activity throughout the week or an equivalent combination of moderate- and vigorous activity. All activity should be performed in bouts of at least 10 minutes duration.
Adults aged 65 and above
The main recommendations for adults and older adults are the same. In addition, older adults with poor mobility should do physical activity to enhance balance and prevent falls three or more days per week. When older adults cannot do the recommended amount of physical activity due to their health conditions, they should be as physically active as their abilities and conditions allow and should consult with physicians.
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