The effect of physical activity on all cause mortality compared to cardiovascular mortality: a review of research and recommendations.

The American Heart Association states that sedentary lifestyle is a major risk factor for CVD comparable to hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, and cigarette smoking. Nearly 60% of Missourians are sedentary. This article reviews and summarizes recent literature on physical inactivity and mortality, makes recommendations to physicians regarding exercise and health benefits, and discusses the contributions physicians can make toward increasing physical activity levels in their patients.