[Hypokinesia: a health related risk factor].
BACKGROUND
Results of numerous epidemiological and experimental studies show that insufficient physical activity (hypokinesia) is an important factor in development of chronic degenerative diseases. It has been proved that insufficient physical activity aggravates insulin resistance, a latent and asymptomatic metabolic disorder that causes hyperinsulinemia. On the other hand, there are multiyear, multidiscipline, prospective clinical studies which have established a significant correlation between general physical ability (measured by maximal oxygen consumption: VO2max) and the capability of metabolic system to produce energy: physical fitness=metabolic fitness.


METHODS
It is possible to precisely diagnose the newest, up to now inaccessible risk factor for health. Our attitude is that measurement of VO2max has to be a standard practice. Quantification means precise diagnosis of hypokinesia. Physical activity for preventive and therapeutic purposes is rational, effective and optimal way. It makes it possible to choose adequate therapy programs and their dosage (intensity, volume, form and duration). We can follow-up therapy effects, achievements and maintain our goal (medium level of general aerobic ability).


CONCLUSIONS
Low aerobic ability should be treated as a significant independent risk factor for development of insulin-independent diabetes and arteriosclerosis. At the same time this risk factor can easily be affected using natural, physiological mechanisms which are favorable, but simple, inexpensive and practically lifelong.
Dragojević
Radosav
R
hbomc@Eunet.yu
Zivković
Miodrag
M
D001161:Arteriosclerosis / Q000517:prevention & control; D003920:Diabetes Mellitus / Q000517:prevention & control; D015444:Exercise; D006801:Humans; D007333:Insulin Resistance; D008019:Life Style; D008875:Middle Aged; D010101:Oxygen Consumption; D010809:Physical Fitness; D012307:Risk Factors