A new study from the University of Iowa underscores the importance of physical activity in reducing the risk of chronic diseases like cardiovascular disease, cancer, respiratory conditions, and diabetes. The research was led by Professor Lucas Carr. The study shows that individuals who exercise moderately to vigorously for at least 150 minutes per week have a much lower risk of these ailments.
STUDY OVERVIEW: SURVEYING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY FOR BETTER HEALTH OUTCOMES
The study analyzed responses from over 7,000 patients at the University of Iowa Health Care Medical Center. Participants completed a questionnaire about their physical activity levels, providing researchers with insights into how exercise impacts long-term health. The findings show that patients who are less physically active face an increased risk of developing chronic diseases. This is especially true for those who report little to no exercise.
EXERCISE VITAL SIGN: A SIMPLE, EFFECTIVE SCREENING TOOL
Carr and his team created the “Exercise Vital Sign” survey. It is a straightforward tool designed to assess physical activity levels during routine medical visits. The two-question survey takes less than 30 seconds to complete. It asks patients about the frequency and duration of their moderate to vigorous exercise. The study recommends offering this survey to all patients to better assess their overall health.
KEY FINDINGS
The study found that patients who engaged in at least 150 minutes of physical activity per week had a significantly lower risk of 19 chronic conditions. These conditions include heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and cancer. These findings highlight the importance of integrating physical activity discussions into healthcare settings to improve patient outcomes.
RECOMMENDING SUPPORT FOR INACTIVE PATIENTS
The researchers suggest that healthcare systems offer resources and information on health and wellness services. They should focus on patients who report being physically inactive. Carr emphasizes that healthcare providers should have pathways to easily connect patients with exercise prescriptions or community health specialists to help them become more active.
CHALLENGES IN HEALTHCARE: LACK OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY SURVEYS
Most U.S. hospitals do not routinely ask patients about their physical activity levels. No hospital system in the Midwest had done so before this study. The research advocates for integrating simple physical activity surveys in annual wellness exams. This can help identify patients at risk due to inactivity. The study suggests that incorporating these screenings could lead to more proactive health management.
LINKING PHYSICAL ACTIVITY TO HEALTH BEHAVIORS
The study also compared the survey results with data from over 33,000 patients who did not receive the survey. It found that those who took the time to complete the survey were generally younger and in better health. This suggests that patients who engage in regular exercise are more likely to adopt other healthy behaviors. They might participate in wellness exams.
INSURANCE REIMBURSEMENT FOR EXERCISE COUNSELING
In a related study published in the Journal of Physical Activity and Health, Carr’s team found that insurance companies often reimburse exercise counseling provided by healthcare providers. Nearly 95% of billing claims for exercise counseling were approved, highlighting the financial feasibility of incorporating physical activity support into healthcare services.