If doctors already recommend that their patients consume fruits and vegetables to prevent certain illnesses, they can add exercise to their treatment. Indeed, playing sports regularly would be just as effective as some heart medications and better than some treatments for stroke.
British and American researchers from the London School of Economics (Great Britain), Harvard School of Medicine (United States) and Stanford University (United States) analyzed the results of 305 studies scientists involving 340,000 people. They compared the effectiveness of physical exercise compared to drug treatments on various pathologies in terms of mortality.
Based on the results of 77 trials of prevention after a heart attack, they found that physical exercise was “as effective” or even slightly better than treatment with statins, the drugs prescribed to fight the disease. excess cholesterol.
Scientists have also shown that physical exercise has a slight advantage over drug treatment (including anticoagulants) used after a Stroke.
On the other hand, diuretics have been shown to be significantly more effective than physical exercise in the treatment of heart failure.
Exercise Can Reduce Stroke Risk by 27%
“By taking important steps like getting regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and quitting smoking, people can significantly reduce their risk of stroke.Explains Dr Peter Coleman, deputy director of research at the Stroke Association, (a British stroke prevention association). “Indeed, moderate physical activity, for example, can reduce the risk of stroke by up to 27%. “. With this study, the researchers raise the delicate question of medical over-prescription. They wonder about the unnecessary consumption of drugs where a better hygiene of life could be more appropriate.
But, Doctor Peter Coleman recalls that “ physical exercise should not be considered as an alternative for patients taking drugs prescribed and advised by their general practitioner“. Even though regular exercise is essential for a healthy life, prescriptions are made by doctors based on the individual needs of patients. It is not recommended for anyone to stop taking their medication without talking to their doctor. doctor.
This study was published in the ” British Medical Journal “.
