INACTIVITY—THE SLOW BUT CERTAIN PATH TO CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE

Abstract

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) remain the leading cause of global mortality, with Romania classified
as a high cardiovascular risk country. Sedentary behaviors and obesity, closely interrelated factors,
significantly contribute to the increased CVD risk. This study analyzed 45 subjects aged between 18
and 49 years, none of them being a professional athlete. Data collected included sex, age, BMI,
metabolic equivalents (METs), and predictive values for the age and sex of the patient. The study aimed
to evaluate the relationship between these variables and to assess the situation regarding the incidence
of sedentary lifestyle. Only 18% of the subjects demonstrated an increased exercise tolerance.
Approximately 50% were overweight, and 26% were obese. Subjects with normal BMI showed greater
exercise tolerance compared to overweight and obese individuals. Overall, 82% of participants did not
meet the ESC guidelines for physical activity. The low levels of physical activity highlight the urgent
need for national educational and structural interventions to reduce cardiovascular risk and promote
an active lifestyle, particularly among vulnerable groups such as young people and overweight
individuals.