Regular Exercise is Associated with a More Favorable Cardiovascular Risk Profile, Better Quality of Life, Less Depression and Less Psychological Stress

Abstract

Introduction: It is well documented that insufficient physical activity (PA) contributes substantially to cardiovascular diseases. The number of physically active people in Germany is still too low. Methods: In ELITE study in Germany, 4602 participants are regularly examined for cardiovascular risk factors (CVRF). The aim is to motivate participants to improve their CVRF through individual recommendations and regular follow-up. Here, the PA data are presented in correlation with CVRF at baseline. A feature of this presentation is that the usual CVRF but also the effects on psychosocial factors were recorded simultaneously. Results: Participants were divided into 3 groups based on their PA: 1. frequent exercise (FE): daily to 2–3x per week (41.4%), 2. moderate exercise (ME): 1x/week to 2x/month (28.8%), 3. rarely exercise (RE): 1x/month to not at all (29.8%). Age did not differ in the 3 groups. The most common CVRF was arterial hypertension, which decreased significantly with an increase in PA. Diabetes, nicotine, and increased BMI were also significantly less frequent in group 1. Antihypertensives were taken less frequently in this group 1. Less physically active participants were significantly more likely to have 3 or more additional CVRF. While group 1 consumed more fruit (64%) and considerably less pork, in group 2 and 3 only 58.3% and 50.3% respectively included fruit in their diet. FE also had a favorable effect on stress, depression and general well-being, all of which were significantly better in group 1. Conclusion: Results confirm the beneficial influences of exercise on known CVRF and on psychosocial parameters. The prevalence of several CVRF per person at low levels of sport is of particular concern, as these participants would benefit most. During a 5-year follow-up, participants will receive intensive education on the need to increase PA. It remains to be seen how successful the effort will be.