The Role of Physical Activity and Exercise in Prevention of Non-Communicable Chronic Diseases in Iran

Non-communicable chronic diseases (NCD) are of the biggest health problems in Iran. The main purpose of this article was to review the latest scientific findings on physiological and functional effects, and mechanisms related to physical activity and exercise by preventing non-communicable chronic diseases, and finally, developing strategies of physical activity.

In this narrative review study, published articles about the subject were gathered from valid websites and databases with key words of physical activity, exercise, non-communicable chronic diseases, and Iran.

A low level of physical activity has been identified as the fourth leading cause of death worldwide. Regular physical activities would prevent cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, some cancers, high blood pressure, obesity, and depression. According to the latest national studies on risk factors of non-communicable disease in Iran, being sedentary has increased in adults from 35.0% to 39.1%. Physical activities and exercise are the main interventions to prevent these diseases.

It seems that obesity, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and type 2 diabetes are greatly improved, when a part of the prevention and treatment program is physical activity and exercise. Strong epidemiological and clinical evidence suggest that physical activity reduces the risk of more than 35 different disorders, and it is the most accessible and inexpensive way to prevent death and disability caused by non-communicable diseases.