As Qatar celebrates National Sport Day, which aims at encouraging people to indulge in physical activities for improving their health and well-being, the Primary Health Care Corporation (PHCC) has come forward encouraging people to indulge in regular physical training to help prevent the risk of chronic diseases. The Corporation has conducted several studies, which reveal the importance of regular physical activity to maintain a healthy body weight and prevent obesity. Several studies have revealed the close connection between obesity and coronary heart diseases. 

PHCC has stated that indulging in regular physical activities will reduce the risk of coronary heart diseases and strokes by up to 35%, reducing the risk of early death by 30%. Additionally, it will help reduce the risk of developing type 2 diabetes by 50% and lessening the risks of colon cancer and breast cancer by 50% and 20% respectively. 

It also stated that besides preventing the risks of coronary heart diseases, high blood pressure, diabetes and cancer, exercise also helps to reduce the risks of developing osteoporosis, hip fractures by 83% and 68% respectively. Exercise helps in improving the quality of life and well-being, while lifting the mood by releasing endorphins. When people exercise regularly, it will help in reducing the risk of depression, dementia and Alzheimer’s by 30%. 

Abdul Hamid Al Khanji, Head of Wellness for Community Interventions PHCC, in a statement stated that with exercise, the risk of heart disease is reduced, strengthening its muscles and improving blood circulation as the increased blood flow raises the oxygen levels in the human body, reducing the risk of high cholesterol, coronary artery diseases and heart attacks. It also helps in lowering triglyceride and insulin levels, controlling blood sugar besides other health and mental benefits, such as mood improvement, stress reduction, and minimizing the risk of depression, improving thinking and learning skills. 

Regular exercise helps in the growth and development of children and teens, building strong bones. For elders, exercise will help them will improving balance and strengthening muscles, while indulging in aerobic activities helps in reducing the risk of falls and early deaths, improving sleep. He urged people to make exercise and aerobic activities, such as walking and cycling, a part of their daily routines. 

The PHCC also provided awareness tips for a healthy sleep. Sleep plays a vital role in helping the body to function well, improving mental health and brain functioning.