Physical inactivity exacts an enormous public health toll. Lack of physical activity is thought to be a primary factor in more than 200,000 deaths per year in the United States, a total equivalent to 25% of all chronic disease deaths and 10% of all deaths. Thus, for the US population, in which 29% of adults are sedentary and more than 50% are overweight, becoming moderately active can provide a meaningful health benefit. Inactivity's negative effects have generated interest in collaboration between public health, city planning, and transportation organizations. Physical inactivity exacts an enormous public health toll. Lack of physical activity is thought to be a primary factor in more than 200,000 deaths per year in the United States, a total equivalent to 25% of all chronic disease deaths and 10% of all deaths. Thus, for the US population, in which 29% of adults are sedentary and more than 50% are overweight, becoming moderately active can provide a meaningful health benefit. Inactivity's negative effects have generated interest in collaboration between public health, city planning, and transportation organizations.

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More Information: www.physsportsmed.com/issues/2001/02_01/killingsworth.htm