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Exercise as a low-cost and effective strategy to reduce the burden of COVID-19: Policy imperatives for promoting physical activity at the national level
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Behzad Bazgir *   , Mahmoud Salesi , Abolfazl Shakibaei , Reza Nahovi |
| Exercise Physiology Research Center, Lifestyle Research Institute, Baqiyatallah University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran , Behzadabazgir@yahoo.com |
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Abstract: (825 Views) |
In addition to the loss of life, COVID-19 has placed an unprecedented strain on the country's health system and economy. Findings from a new cross-sectional study in Iran show that higher levels of physical activity (especially structured physical activity) are associated with a significantly reduced risk of hospitalization and death from the disease. The prevalence of physical inactivity and unhealthy lifestyles in Iran is a major risk factor for severe COVID-19. The restrictions during the pandemic have also exacerbated physical inactivity. Patients with COVID-19 who had higher levels of physical activity, especially in the field of exercise, were less likely to need hospitalization and had a higher chance of survival if hospitalized. This association was not as strong for occupational or leisure-time physical activity. Integrating "physical activity prescription" and "lifestyle counseling" at different levels of COVID-19 prevention (primary, secondary, tertiary). This should be achieved through a review of clinical protocols, health workforce training programs, and national awareness campaigns.
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| Keywords: COVID-19, Physical activity, Exercise, Hospitalization, Mortality, Health policy, Lifestyle |
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Full-Text [PDF 347 kb]
(488 Downloads)
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Type of Study: Policy Brief |
Subject:
Marine Medicine
Received: 2026/01/5 | Accepted: 2026/01/27 | Published: 2026/01/30
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