Physical Activity Plummets After Age 45
By: June Chen, MD
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Physical activity levels drop more quickly after the age of 45 years, particularly in men, according to a new study published in the October 26, 2009 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine. The results of this study also showed that regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy body mass index, and not smoking were associated with better fitness levels and cardiovascular health.
The U.S. population is aging and, unfortunately, becoming more overweight and less active. Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) declines with age and is influenced by lifestyle factors, such as the level of physical activity. Low CRF levels increase the risk of disease and interfere with the ability of older adults to function independently.
Researchers from the University of Houston in Texas and their colleagues studied 3429 women and 16,889 men, aged 20 to 96 years. Study measurements included body mass index, self-reported aerobic physical activity, smoking habits, and CRF. The researchers found that CRF in both men and women falls at a rate that accelerates after the age of 45. Not surprisingly, increased physical activity was associated with higher CRT across the adult life span.
Based on the findings of this study, the researchers conclude that physicians should advise their patients of the need to maintain their weight, engage in regular aerobic physical activity, and refrain from smoking.
Source:
Arch Intern Med. 2009;169:1781-1787.
Tools: More
Physical activity levels drop more quickly after the age of 45 years, particularly in men, according to a new study published in the October 26, 2009 issue of the Archives of Internal Medicine. The results of this study also showed that regular physical activity, maintaining a healthy body mass index, and not smoking were associated with better fitness levels and cardiovascular health.
The U.S. population is aging and, unfortunately, becoming more overweight and less active. Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) declines with age and is influenced by lifestyle factors, such as the level of physical activity. Low CRF levels increase the risk of disease and interfere with the ability of older adults to function independently.
Researchers from the University of Houston in Texas and their colleagues studied 3429 women and 16,889 men, aged 20 to 96 years. Study measurements included body mass index, self-reported aerobic physical activity, smoking habits, and CRF. The researchers found that CRF in both men and women falls at a rate that accelerates after the age of 45. Not surprisingly, increased physical activity was associated with higher CRT across the adult life span.
Based on the findings of this study, the researchers conclude that physicians should advise their patients of the need to maintain their weight, engage in regular aerobic physical activity, and refrain from smoking.
Source:
Arch Intern Med. 2009;169:1781-1787.
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