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Maryland Heart Center

About the Heart

Risks of Physical Inactivity

What health risks are associated with physical inactivity?

Blood pressure monitor

Lack of physical activity has clearly been shown to be a risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

Facts about sedentary lifestyles:

Estimates indicate that nearly 250,000 deaths per year in the US -- about 12 percent of total deaths -- are due to a lack of regular physical activity. Surveys show that only 22 percent of American adults get enough leisure-time exercise to achieve cardiovascular fitness. The 1991-92 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance Study data show the following have a sedentary lifestyle:

It has also been found that people with lower incomes and less than a 12th grade education are more likely to lead a sedentary lifestyle. Thirty-eight percent of people age 55 and older report essentially sedentary lifestyles.

One National Children and Youth Fitness Study found that:


Please call if you would like to make an appointment or talk to someone about our services. Patients dial 1-800-492-5538 or 410-328-5842, physicians dial 410-328-6622 or 1-800-318-1019.