Exercise and Non-Communicable Diseases: Part II Cancer, Diabetes Mellitus, Kidney Diseases, Alzheimer’s Disease, Arthritis

Abstract

Non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading global cause of death and disproportionately afflict those living in low-income and lower-middle-income countries. Healthy lifestyle behaviors, including eating a high-quality diet, non-smoking, engaging in moderate to vigorous physical activity, and drinking alcohol in moderation, have been associated with a lower risk of NCDs, a decline in worsening, and a reduction in associated mortality. The first part of this two-part series discussed exercise and its effects on cardiovascular and respiratory diseases, obesity, depression, and liver ailments. This second part discusses the deleterious effects of smoking on five non-communicable diseases, viz., cancer, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, Alzheimer’s disease, and arthritis. This manuscript highlights the benefits of exercise, in reducing the incidence, progression, and premature mortality of NCDs.