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Incorporating cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) assessments into routine health checkups may serve as a vital tool in understanding individuals’ health status, predicting mortality, and identifying underlying disease risks, according to a recent study published in the British Journal of Sports Medicine.
CRF, commonly referred to as cardio or aerobic fitness, is defined as the capacity of the heart, lungs, and blood vessels to supply oxygen during sustained physical activity. The American Heart Association (AHA) highlights that an individual’s aerobic fitness level can provide insights into various health factors, including smoking habits, hypertension, and high cholesterol levels.
The study underscores the importance of integrating CRF measurements into both clinical and public health practices. Amid reports of apparently healthy individuals succumbing to heart disease and other ailments, researchers emphasize the need for a proactive approach to assess cardiovascular health.
Sanjay Chugh, Associate Director and Senior Consultant Interventional Cardiology at Narayana Hospital Gurugram, emphasized the significance of regular CRF assessments. He stated, “Apparently ‘healthy’ adults can take the cardiorespiratory fitness test annually under medical advice and supervision.” Chugh highlighted the test’s ability to predict cardiovascular disease risk, mortality, and the likelihood of developing conditions such as diabetes, cancer, or mental illness.
The study found that individuals with high CRF levels were associated with a reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cancer. Conversely, a low CRF indicated an increased risk of developing chronic conditions like hypertension, heart failure, stroke, atrial fibrillation, dementia, and depression.
The CRF assessment primarily focuses on measuring maximum oxygen uptake (VO2 max) and its utilization during intense exercise. This information provides valuable insights into an individual’s overall cardiovascular health and potential risks.
Furthermore, in patients undergoing surgical procedures, CRF testing can help predict the risks of complications and mortality associated with surgeries. It aids in risk stratification, prognosis determination, and guiding patient management strategies.
Sudhir Kumar, a neurologist at Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, advocates for the routine inclusion of CRF measurements in clinical practice. This proactive approach could potentially revolutionize preventive healthcare by enabling early identification of underlying health issues and facilitating targeted interventions to improve overall well-being.
As healthcare systems continue to evolve, the integration of CRF assessments into standard health checkups could prove instrumental in reducing disease burden, enhancing patient outcomes, and promoting a healthier society overall.
