Chronic, non-communicable diseases (NCDs) are the leading cause of death and disability in the world. The term, noncommunicable diseases refers to a group of diseases that are not primarily caused by acute infection, result in long-term health consequences, and often create a need for long-term treatment and care. These conditions include cancers, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes and chronic lung diseases. Many noncommunicable diseases can be prevented by reducing common risk factors such as tobacco use, harmful use of alcohol, physical inactivity, and eating unhealthy foods. Many other important conditions are also considered noncommunicable diseases, including injuries and mental health disorders. (Pan American Health Organization, 2020)

There are many studies that have shown strong evidence of the positive effects of muscle strengthening activities in the exercise routine. The results of a meta-analysis (Momma , Kawakami , & Honda , 2022) whose objective was to quantify the associations between muscle strengthening activities and the risk of non-communicable diseases and mortality in adults, independently of aerobic activities, have recently been published.

Results showed that muscle-strengthening activities were associated with a 10-17% lower risk of all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease (CVD), co-cancer, diabetes, and lung cancer. No association was found between muscle-strengthening activities and the risk of some specific cancers (colon, kidney, bladder, and pancreatic cancers). Combined muscle-strengthening and aerobic activities (versus neither) were associated with a lower risk of all-cause cardiovascular disease and total cancer mortality.

The authors concluded that muscle-strengthening activities were inversely associated with the risk of all-cause mortality and major noncommunicable diseases, including CVD, total cancer, diabetes, and lung cancer.

Skeletal muscle tissue is the backbone of our health. Maintaining active muscle tissue, preserving overall size and strength, should undoubtedly be the first objective in the exercise-health association. In this way, strength training in its most diverse manifestations is the most recommended exercise modality when we talk about health, especially when age advances. (Chicharro, 2022)

Bibliography

Chicharro, L. (March 8, 2022). https://www.fisiologiadelejercicio.com Obtained from https://www.fisiologiadelejercicio.com/entrenar-fuerza-se-asocia-a-menor-mortalidad-y-menor-riesgo-de-padecer-enfermedades-cronicas-no-transmisibles/

Momma , H., Kawakami , R., & Honda , T. (2022). Muscle-strengthening activities are associated with lower risk and mortality in major non-communicable diseases: a systematic review and meta-analysis of cohort studies. British Journal of Sports Medicine, 755-763.

Pan American Health Organization. (2020). https://www.paho.org Obtained from https://www.paho.org/es/temas/enfermedades-no-transmisibles