Physical activity and cardiovascular disease prevention in women: A review of the epidemiologic evidence

Epidemiologic studies suggest that as little as 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per day can lower the risk of developing cardiovascular disease in women. Sedentary individuals who become physically active even at older ages derive cardiovascular benefits. Physical activity appears to slow the initiation and progression of CVD through salutary effects not only on adiposity but also on insulin sensitivity, glycemic control, incident type 2 diabetes, blood pressure, lipids, endothelial function, hemostasis, and inflammatory defense systems. Public health initiatives that promote moderate increases in physical activity may offer the best balance between efficacy and feasibility to improve cardiovascular health in sedentary populations.