The relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness, cardiovascular risk factors and atherosclerosis
Document Type
Review Article
Department
Cardiology; Office of the Provost
Abstract
Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) refers to the ability of the cardiopulmonary system to supply oxygen to skeletal muscles during exercise. Regular physical activity optimizes these systems by physiologic means that not only decrease cardiovascular risk factors but also independently affect mortality. Importantly, CRF is an integrative measure of the effects of its upstream risk factors including physical activity and genetics. In this review, we summarize the main methods that are frequently used to estimate CRF. We cite findings from the major studies on CRF, which demonstrate a beneficial effect on prevalent cardiovascular risk factor burden, subclinical atherosclerosis, and incident adverse outcomes including death, myocardial infarction, stroke, and cancer. We conclude by suggesting the incorporation of CRF into clinical decision-making given the prognostic information it provides.
Publication (Name of Journal)
Atherosclerosis
DOI
10.1016/j.atherosclerosis.2020.04.019
Recommended Citation
Chu, D. J.,
Al Rifai, M.,
Virani, S. S.,
Brawner, C. A.,
Nasir, K.,
Al-Mallah, M. H.
(2020). The relationship between cardiorespiratory fitness, cardiovascular risk factors and atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis, 304, 44-52.
Available at:
https://ecommons.aku.edu/provost_office/586
Comments
Issue no. is not provided by the author/publisher. This work was published before the author joined Aga Khan University.