Physical Activity, A Polypill for Non-Communicable Diseases in Modern era: a Scoping Review

Background. Regular physical activity is widely acknowledged for health benefits however the uptake of PA is low due to lack of awareness. Objectives. The objectives of the present scoping review are: 1) to consolidate the evidence claiming the effectiveness of physical activity interventions on the chronic disease risk; 2) to explore the difference in clinical benefits and strategies to promote physical activity across various age groups. Methods. We searched for systematic reviews and meta-analytical studies on five databases (EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science and Ovid Medline) and pertinent literature on mapping the association between physical activity and chronic disease risk was summarized. Results. From 41 systematic reviews included for review, physical activity interventions were found to be effective in combating chronic diseases including diabetes, cancer, cardiometabolic, kidney disease, neurovascular and musculoskeletal disorders. Putative physiological underpinnings for the potential therapeutic effects of physical activity are regulation of hormones, vascular integrity, neuromotor and immune regulation. Majority of the reviews (n = 12, 29%) explored the effects of supervised exercise training and cardiometabolic risk, however long-term compliance questioned. Strategies to promote physical activity should be based on socio-ecological models (individual, interpersonal, institutional and national policy level). School and workplace based physical activity may be crucial in prevention of chronic disease risk. Conclusions. Promoting physical activity is a key preventive measure and therapeutic intervention for combating chronic disease risk across different age groups and populations. However, potential culturally adaptable strategies to promote physical activity in the community are still lacking.