Portfolio

(Sample excerpt from a brochure for a training program of the American Heart Association)

"An inverse relationship between physical activity and coronary heart disease (CHD) has been established in numerous population-based studies, providing a solid scientific foundation for a vigorous national effort to increase physical activity levels and thereby reduce CHD morbidity and mortality. 

With respect to the public health impact associated with physical inactivity, it is estimated that over 250,000 deaths per year in the United States can be attributed, at least in part, to the lack of physical activity.  Accordingly, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the AHA have now categorized physical inactivity as a major risk factor for CHD, ranking it with an overall weight for preventive value similar to elevated cholesterol, cigarette smoking, and high blood pressure. 

Recent studies have also helped to clarify the minimal and optimal amounts of physical activity for improved health and cardiovascular fitness.  The results are encouraging.  The health benefits and protective effects of physical activity can be achieved at mild to moderate levels of exercise – far from the fevered pitch some Americans have adopted."

Return to Portfolio home page