Fizička (ne)aktivnost - definicija, učestalost i ekonomski aspekti
Physical (In)activity - Definition, Incidence And Economic Aspects

Summary/Abstract: Insufficient attention is given to the scope and type of physical activity al-though a large amount of scientific research conducted during the last several decades unequivocally suggests a significant positive impact of physical activity on the pres-ervation and improvement of one’s health status. Physical activity is any form of body movement that increases energy consumption to the level exceeding the consumption in the inactive state. In addition to smoking, hypertension, and dyslipidemia, physical inactivity is an important risk factor for heart diseases. More recent studies indicate that around 60 to 70% of the population in developed countries do not reach even the minimum level of physical activity and Serbia has a similar percentage. During the last 20 years, long-lasting epidemiological and experimental studies have shown that inactivity causes diseases and premature death. Obesity, type 2 diabetes, some forms of cancer, and several other diseases are only some of the diseases that can be effi-ciently prevented with a sufficient level of physical activity. Specific physical exer-cise programmes help senior citizens enhance their stability (Snow et al. 2000), which reduces the risk of injuries caused by falling. Physical activity is an efficient tool in prevention of the lumbar syndrome (lumbar syndrome) and it also reduces the re-peated occurrence of spine-related problems. In addition to causing diseases and pre-mature death, physical inactivity also negatively impacts the economy, primarily through costs of sick leaves and healthcare. There are studies that indicate a reduction in the treatment costs by around 5% for each active day of the study participants. Maintaining an active way of life and a moderate level of aerobic activity can signifi-cantly reduce both direct and indirect costs resulting from physical inactivity. Promo-tion of physical activity has to be included in national and local strategies and cam-paigns in order to raise public awareness on the significance of physical activity for every individual and, consequently, for the society as a whole.

• Details
• Contents