By Gabe Sanders PhD, NSCA-CSCS
Low cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) isn’t just a personal health issue—it’s a costly problem that’s putting a significant strain on healthcare systems.
A recent study revealed that poor CRF in Canadian adults costs the country CAD $3.6 billion annually in healthcare and productivity losses, accounting for 2.7% of Canada’s total burden of illness. While these numbers are alarming, the U.S. faces an even larger crisis due to its bigger population, with billions spent managing chronic conditions linked to low fitness levels.
Low CRF is a leading predictor of chronic disease in US
In Canada, conditions like type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and mental health disorders such as depression and anxiety drive up healthcare costs. For example, type 2 diabetes alone accounts for CAD $1.3 billion annually. Hospital care and prescription drug expenses are the main contributors, a trend mirrored in the United States. Low CRF is a leading predictor of premature mortality and chronic disease in the U.S., making it a serious public health concern. The American Heart Association (AHA) warns that billions of dollars are spent each year managing diseases like heart disease and diabetes, all closely tied to poor fitness levels.
Reducing Low CRF leads to substantial savings
Reducing low CRF by just 10% could lead to substantial savings, an estimated CAD $644 million annually in Canada, with even higher potential savings in the U.S. Promoting public health initiatives that encourage physical activity and fitness could significantly ease the economic burden. Investing in public health initiatives, promoting physical activity, and encouraging fitness programs can mitigate the economic burden of low fitness. In both Canada and the U.S., prioritizing cardiorespiratory health is not just about individual well-being, it’s also essential for reducing strain on the healthcare system and boosting overall economic productivity.
Article’s Source
Chaput, Jean-Philippe, et al. “Economic burden of low cardiorespiratory fitness in Canada.” Preventive Medicine 168 (2023): 107424.
Vicki Doe Fitness-STORE
Discover the Vicki Doe Fitness-STORE—your destination for stylish apparel, fitness gear, and wellness essentials like yoga mats, water bottles, candles, and premium supplements. Shop now and elevate your health journey!
Resources
*Note: Some of the resources below may be affiliate links, meaning Vicki Doe Fitness receives a commission (at no extra cost to you) if you use the link to make a purchase. Thank you for your support!
Need relaxation and stress relief? Try Yoga!
YogaDownload is the premier online destination for downloading/streaming online yoga, meditation, pilates, barre, and fitness classes. Online since 2009, they offer 1,700+ classes taught by professional instructors, including world-renowned yoga teachers the likes of Anna Forrest.
Join YogaDownload.com
Go to our Resources page- For the most recommended tools, you need to succeed on your healthy living journey!!
Listen and share our podcast show- “It’s All About Health & Fitness-” Vicki Doe Fitness
Or anywhere that you listen to your favorite podcast.
To support this Website, Podcast, and all of our other health fitness educational media content,
Haywood Doe Consulting Co. LLC
Leave a Reply