| Exercise should be prescribed by doctors to prevent chronic diseases, experts say |
| Thursday, 02 June 2011 15:58 |
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The prevalence of many chronic diseases tends to increase after turning 65, and exercise may be one way to keep these illnesses from developing. The Interactive Health Group of PCE Fitness and the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) are encouraging doctors across the nation to prescribe one of the most natural types of medicine in existence - physical activity. In order to raise awareness of the benefits of working out, the organizations have launched an innovative online system to connect healthcare providers, patients and exercise professionals to encourage pursuing exercise as a standard component of disease prevention and treatment."We've seen the power of exercise to prevent and treat chronic diseases," said James Whitehead, CEO of the ACSM. "This tool takes us a giant step toward making physical activity a part of every patient's healthcare plan." He added that doctors can quickly access evidence-based research and recommendations to write personalized exercise prescriptions for each of their patients. According to a recent survey from the ACSM, nearly two-thirds of patients would be more interested in exercising to maintain good health if their doctor recommended engaging in physical activity. |
