Beyond Exercise: The Cardiovascular Implications of Sedentary Lifestyles in the Modern Era

REVIEW
Qamil Dika, Aldo Shpuza

 
For citation: Dika Q, Shpuza A. Beyond Exercise: The Cardiovascular Implications of Sedentary Lifestyles in the Modern Era. International Journal of Biomedicine. 2024;14(3):398-400. doi:10.21103/Article14(3)_RA5
 
Originally published September 6, 2024

Abstract: 

This short review explores the cardiovascular implications of modern sedentary lifestyles, emphasizing the distinction between physical inactivity and sedentary behavior (SB). This paper highlights how modern screen-based activities have replaced traditional sedentary lifestyles. Using a top-down approach (i.e., a biopsychosocial model), it discusses how psychosocial factors such as stress, technology use, and socioeconomic status lead to SB, harmful physiological changes, and, as a result, an increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Finally, different physical activity behaviors and levels impact CVD risk differently, revealing nuanced differences and emphasizing the need for clear definitions, measurement methods, and the identification of indirect determinants such as work and recreational infrastructure.

Keywords: 
sedentary behavior • physical inactivity • cardiovascular disease
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Received June 16, 2024.
Accepted August 28, 2024.
©2024 International Medical Research and Development Corporation.