Study Reveals Benefits of Exercise in Preventing Stroke
A study published in the scientific journal BMJ Journal of Neurology, Neurosurgery and Psychiatry highlights that practicing physical activity, regardless of intensity, can reduce the risk of stroke by 10% to 30%, compared to inactivity.
According to the study, low levels of exercise are associated with a 13% reduction in the risk of ischemic stroke and a 16% reduction in the risk of hemorrhagic stroke. “Ischemic stroke, the most common, occurs due to the obstruction of a blood vessel, while hemorrhagic stroke results from the rupture of a blood vessel in the brain,” explains neurosurgeon Victor Hugo Espíndola.
Researchers analyzed more than 750,000 participants over an average of 10 years, across 15 different studies. Each study used different classifications for activity levels, ranging from “none” to “ideal” or “vigorous.” Higher levels of physical activity were also found to be associated with an even lower risk of stroke, with a 33 percent lower risk for those who engaged in moderate activity.
Health benefits of physical activity
According to the neurosurgeon, regular exercise is one of the main agents in the prevention of several diseases, such as diabetes, hypertension, obesity and inflammatory diseases, in addition to improving sleep. This finding is in line with the results of the research, which also analyzed the impacts of physical activity on different types of ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke.
“Since stroke and heart attack are among the leading causes of global mortality, it is essential to exercise regularly to maintain good health and reduce the risk of hospitalization due to these diseases,” the expert emphasizes. This recommendation reinforces the importance of adopting an active lifestyle to promote general well-being and prevent serious diseases.
“According to WHO guidelines, it is recommended that adults do between 150 and 300 minutes of moderate or vigorous physical activity per week,” explains Victor Hugo. “In addition, it is essential that children and adolescents do about 60 minutes of moderate aerobic physical activity per day to ensure healthy development,” he adds.
Source: Terra
Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.
