The latest research from the World Health Organization suggests that regular exercise can reduce the risk of heart disease by up to 30%. This finding comes from a comprehensive ten-year study involving over 10,000 participants across 15 countries.
Dr. Sarah Johnson, lead researcher on the project, emphasized that even moderate physical activity of 30 minutes per day can have significant benefits. “We’re not talking about becoming marathon runners,” she explains. “Simple activities like brisk walking or cycling can make a tremendous difference to your cardiovascular health.”
The study also found correlations between exercise and improved mental health, with participants reporting lower levels of anxiety and depression. For more information on these findings, visit the WHO physical activity portal.
Health officials are now recommending that public policy should focus on creating more accessible exercise opportunities in urban environments, including bike lanes, public parks, and community fitness programs. The Healthy People Initiative has already begun implementing some of these recommendations in select cities.
