Public health reports
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The American lifestyle is still relatively sedentary. The proportion of adults aged 18 to 65 regularly exercising has been estimated at just over 35 percent, with children participating in daily physical education programs at 33 percent, and 36 percent of adults over 65 taking regular walks. Though the past decade has exhibited a resurgence of interest in physical fitness and exercise, there is much need for improvement. ⋯ Further, exercise as a therapeutic regimen has also been largely ignored by health professionals. Although the health benefits accrued from exercise have not been fully assessed, continuing research has suggested that appropriate physical activity can enhance approaches to the treatment and prevention of heart disease, obesity, hypertension, diabetes, musculoskeletal problems, stress, anxiety, and depression. Health and economic benefits are achievable, but there is need for cooperative efforts in the public and private sectors to support research and increase the public's awareness of and participation in regular physical fitness and exercise activities.
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Four statements of national health goals and standards were proclaimed from the U. S. Department of Health and Human Services during the 1970s. ⋯ Implementation inevitably encounters the complexities of the health system and depends upon available resources. In influencing the agenda of deliberation and debate, the symbolic value of these statements may often be more significant than the specific details. The continuing interest in these approaches suggests that future efforts along these lines are likely.