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The global path forward - Healthy Living for Pandemic Event Protection (HL - PIVOT).
Arena, R, Lavie, CJ, ,
Progress in cardiovascular diseases. 2021;:96-101
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The fit-active profile to better reflect the benefits of a lifelong vigorous physical activity participation: mini-review of literature and population data.
Marin-Couture, E, Pérusse, L, Tremblay, A
Applied physiology, nutrition, and metabolism = Physiologie appliquee, nutrition et metabolisme. 2021;(7):763-770
Abstract
Physical activity is favourably considered for its effect on metabolic fitness and body composition. This observation is generally supported by observational studies and is concordant with endurance-trained individuals' metabolic and morphological profiles. However, in some contexts, the measurement of physical activity habits may not provide an adequate representation of its benefits. In this paper, we review relevant literature on the respective effects of fitness and physical activity on anthropometric and metabolic variables and the informative potential of a classification based on aerobic fitness and activity indicators. The relevance to defining a profile based on both fitness and activity is reinforced by data from the Quebec Family Study showing that, in both men and women, "fit-active" individuals displayed a much more favourable morphological and metabolic profile than "unfit-inactive" individuals. Moreover, these benefits seemed to be more related to variations in fitness than in physical activity. In summary, evidence suggests that a profile combining information on aerobic fitness and physical activity may better reflect the lifelong impact of physical activity on body composition and health. Novelty: The fit-active profile better reflects the long-term benefits of vigorous physical activity participation on health. The reported benefits seem to be more related to variations in aerobic fitness than to those in physical activity.
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3.
#StayHomeStayFit: UNIMI's approach to online healthy lifestyle promotion during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Lucini, D, Gandolfi, CE, Antonucci, C, Cavagna, A, Valzano, E, Botta, E, Chiari, M, Mameli, L, Nahum, M, Brambilla, MM, et al
Acta bio-medica : Atenei Parmensis. 2020;(3):e2020037
Abstract
The COVID-19 lockdown imposed radical changes in the lifestyles of the population through isolation measures, with considerable health, social, psychological and economic consequences. Lockdown measures may have exacerbated negative population behaviors regarding exercise and nutrition, with risk of weight gain and obesity, collectively predisposing to increased cardiometabolic risk and mortality. At particular risk of deleterious consequences were patients such as those affected by chronic non communicable diseases (CNCD). The benefits of regular exercise are evident at several levels of CNCD prevention, however, from a public health standpoint, it is important to consider they are also related to improved stress management, work/academic performance, and reduced illegal behavior, isolation and depression. Therefore, during enforced isolation, a primary goal for all individuals is to maintain energy balance. During lockdown, several lifestyle interventions were posted online, with the internet playing a major role in exercise and fitness promotion. Among these one must recognize the ambitious "#StayHomeStayFit" project by the University of Milan, providing useful general information and trustworthy advice regarding nutrition, physical activity, and psychological support, for the general population in a time of need. Data showed a total of 21224 views on various social media and webpages during the reference period, with a mean time of 4' 17'' spent per page/video. Given the health risks associated with population physical inactivity and unhealthy lifestyle, policymakers should evaluate the benefits of projects such as #StayHomeStayFit and consider how to maximize population perception and reach. After all, additional COVID-19 lockdowns might be implemented in the future.
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4.
Modifiable Risk Factors for the Development of Breast Cancer in Young Women.
Cathcart-Rake, EJ, Ruddy, KJ, Johnson, RH
Cancer journal (Sudbury, Mass.). 2018;(6):275-284
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Breast cancer is the most common malignancy among adolescents and young adults (AYAs) women aged 15 to 39 years at diagnosis. An improved understanding of modifiable factors that mitigate the risks of the development of breast cancer may allow for future strategies to reduce the incidence of AYA breast cancer. METHOD A literature review was conducted to report upon associations between modifiable lifestyle factors and breast cancer risk. RESULTS Higher levels of physical activity, lower red meat intake, and higher intake of plants appear to decrease the risk of developing AYA breast cancer, whereas associations between obesity and AYA breast cancer risk were less straightforward. CONCLUSIONS Further research, ideally in large prospective trials, is needed to truly understand modifiable risk factors for the development of AYA breast cancer.
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Mobile Health Advances in Physical Activity, Fitness, and Atrial Fibrillation: Moving Hearts.
McConnell, MV, Turakhia, MP, Harrington, RA, King, AC, Ashley, EA
Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2018;(23):2691-2701
Abstract
The growing recognition that "health" takes place outside of the hospital and clinic, plus recent advances in mobile and wearable devices, have propelled the field of mobile health (mHealth). Cardiovascular disease and prevention are major opportunities for mHealth, as mobile devices can monitor key physiological signals (e.g., physical activity, heart rate and rhythm) for promoting healthy behaviors, detecting disease, and aid in ongoing care. In this review, the authors provide an update on cardiovascular mHealth by highlighting recent progress and challenges with mobile and wearable devices for assessing and promoting physical activity and fitness, and for monitoring heart rate and rhythm for the detection and management of atrial fibrillation.
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Exercise Early and Often: Effects of Physical Activity and Exercise on Women's Bone Health.
Troy, KL, Mancuso, ME, Butler, TA, Johnson, JE
International journal of environmental research and public health. 2018;(5)
Abstract
In 2011 over 1.7 million people were hospitalized because of a fragility fracture, and direct costs associated with osteoporosis treatment exceeded 70 billion dollars in the United States. Failure to reach and maintain optimal peak bone mass during adulthood is a critical factor in determining fragility fracture risk later in life. Physical activity is a widely accessible, low cost, and highly modifiable contributor to bone health. Exercise is especially effective during adolescence, a time period when nearly 50% of peak adult bone mass is gained. Here, we review the evidence linking exercise and physical activity to bone health in women. Bone structure and quality will be discussed, especially in the context of clinical diagnosis of osteoporosis. We review the mechanisms governing bone metabolism in the context of physical activity and exercise. Questions such as, when during life is exercise most effective, and what specific types of exercises improve bone health, are addressed. Finally, we discuss some emerging areas of research on this topic, and summarize areas of need and opportunity.
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Reprint of: Promoting Physical Activity and Exercise: JACC Health Promotion Series.
Fletcher, GF, Landolfo, C, Niebauer, J, Ozemek, C, Arena, R, Lavie, CJ
Journal of the American College of Cardiology. 2018;(23 Pt B):3053-3070
Abstract
Physical inactivity is one of the leading modifiable risk factors for global mortality, with an estimated 20% to 30% increased risk of death compared with those who are physically active. The "behavior" of physical activity (PA) is multifactorial, including social, environmental, psychological, and genetic factors. Abundant scientific evidence has demonstrated that physically active people of all age groups and ethnicities have higher levels of cardiorespiratory fitness, health, and wellness, and a lower risk for developing several chronic medical illnesses, including cardiovascular disease, compared with those who are physically inactive. Although more intense and longer durations of PA correlate directly with improved outcomes, even small amounts of PA provide protective health benefits. In this state-of-the-art review, the authors focus on "healthy PA" with the emphasis on the pathophysiological effects of physical inactivity and PA on the cardiovascular system, mechanistic/triggering factors, the role of preventive actions through personal, education/environment, and societal/authoritative factors, as well as factors to provide guidance for caregivers of health promotion regarding PA. Sustainable and comprehensive programs to increase PA among all individuals need to be developed and implemented at local, regional, national, and international levels to effect positive changes and improve global health, especially the reduction of cardiovascular disease.
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'Evolutionary medicine' perspectives on Alzheimer's Disease: Review and new directions.
Fox, M
Ageing research reviews. 2018;:140-148
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Abstract
Evolution by natural selection eliminates maladaptive traits from a species, and yet Alzheimer's Disease (AD) persists with rapidly increasing prevalence globally. This apparent paradox begs an explanation within the framework of evolutionary sciences. Here, I summarize and critique previously proposed theories to explain human susceptibility to AD, grouped into 8 distinct hypotheses based on the concepts of novel extension of the lifespan; lack of selective pressure during the post-reproductive phase; antagonistic pleiotropy; rapid brain evolution; delayed neuropathy by selection for grandmothering; novel alleles selected to delay neuropathy; by-product of selection against cardiovascular disease; and thrifty genotype. Subsequently, I describe a new hypothesis inspired by the concept of mismatched environments. Many of the factors that enhance AD risk today may have been absent or functioned differently before the modern era, potentially making AD a less common affliction for age-matched individuals before industrialization and for the majority of human history. Future research is needed to further explore whether changes in environments and lifestyles across human history moderate risk factors and susceptibility to AD.
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Strategies to reduce non-communicable diseases in the offspring: negative and positive in utero programming.
Rodriguez-Caro, H, Williams, SA
Journal of developmental origins of health and disease. 2018;(6):642-652
Abstract
Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are a major problem as they are the leading cause of death and represent a substantial economic cost. The 'Developmental Origins of Health and Disease Hypothesis' proposes that adverse stimuli at different life stages can increase the predisposition to these diseases. In fact, adverse in utero programming is a major origin of these diseases due to the high malleability of embryonic development. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the scientific literature on in utero programming and NCDs highlighting potential medical strategies to prevent these diseases based upon this programming. We fully address the concept and mechanisms involved in this programming (anatomical disruptions, epigenetic modifications and microbiota alterations). We also examine the negative role of in utero programming on the increased predisposition of NCDs in the offspring, which introduces the passive medical approach that consists of avoiding adverse stimuli including an unhealthy diet and environmental chemicals. Finally, we extensively discuss active medical approaches that target the causes of NCDs and have the potential to significantly and rapidly reduce the incidence of NCDs. These approaches can be classified as direct in utero programming modifications and personalized lifestyle pregnancy programs; they could potentially provide transgenerational NCDs protection. Active strategies against NCDs constitute a promising tool for the reduction in NCDs.
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Community-Based Healthy Living Interventions.
Berra, K, Franklin, B, Jennings, C
Progress in cardiovascular diseases. 2017;(5):430-439
Abstract
In an environment in which most people have lifestyles that increase risk for initial or recurrent cardiovascular disease (CVD) events, community-based healthy lifestyle initiatives are highly effective in providing programs, education and support to reduce associated CVD risk factors and improve outcomes. Pioneering programs, such as the Stanford Three Community and Five Cities studies, and the North Karelia project in Finland, served as prototypes for current initiatives. These include partnerships with national organizations (e.g., YMCA DPP) and faith-based programs. Training may be provided by healthcare professionals and/or community healthcare workers; initiatives include exercise-based and weight-reduction programs, smoking cessation interventions, dietary counseling and education, and medication adherence. Contemporary technologies and home-based programs provide alternatives to those who might not otherwise have access to center-based programs. Community-based initiatives, particularly those with state or national support, have the potential to enhance the delivery and effectiveness of CVD prevention at low cost.