More physical activity and less sedentary behaviour: advice for CVD prevention

Physical activity remains an important but undervalued strategy for the prevention of cardiovascular disease, and evidence is accumulating for sedentary behaviour (‘too much sitting’) as a new risk factor. For GPs, asking patients about both their physical activity and prolonged sitting time is a key first step. Promotion of regular physical activity in primary care has been shown to result in significant short to medium term increases in physical activity among individuals and is important brief advice to provide to everyone who accesses clinical care.