Study Highlights Importance Of Exercise In Improving Overall Health

KYW's Medical Reports Sponsored By Independence Blue Cross

By Dr. Brian McDonough, Medical Editor

PHILADELPHIA (CBS) -- For people with heart disease or lung problems there is definitely a feeling that it's dangerous or even impossible to exercise. But the right types and amounts of exercise can be very helpful, whether your breathing problems are mild, severe, or somewhere in between.

Of course any type of exercise should be talked over with your physician, but a study by German researchers shows why exercise is so important.

The researchers tracked over one hundred patients with lung problems for about three years. For those not on an exercise program physical activity tended to lessen over time. This decrease in activity went along with worsening of their breathing problems and overall health. But those who were in an exercise program maintained better health and breathing for longer periods of time.

Essentially, the exercise played a valuable part in improving overall health.