Trends in Adults Receiving a Recommendation for Exercise or Other Physical Activity from a Physician or Other Health Professional. Data Brief No. 86

摘要

Research points to the benefits of physical activity for reducing the risk of chronic health conditions. Engaging in regular physical activity can reduce medication dependence, help maintain functional independence, and improve the quality of life for older adults. Physicians and other health professionals can be influential sources of health information, and exercise counseling by primary care physicians has been shown to increase patients participation in physical activity. This report examines trends in the prevalence of U.S. adults receiving a physicians or other health professionals advice to exercise or perform other physical activity among adults who had seen a health professional in the past 12 months.