A consultant endocrinologist at the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Idi-Aba, Abeokuta, Dr Alalade Boladale, has emphasized that regular exercise, including walking, significantly reduces the burden of cardiovascular and other non-communicable diseases. He made this statement during a sensitisation walk in Abeokuta, Ogun State, to commemorate the 2026 World Walking Day. The event, observed globally on October 4, promotes movement, unity, community participation, and healthier lifestyles.
According to Dr Boladale, exercise plays a crucial role in preventing and managing several health conditions, particularly non-communicable diseases such as hypertension, diabetes, kidney and liver diseases, and disorders involving cholesterol and other lipids. He noted that physical exercise is an essential component of medical care, often recommended by healthcare professionals as part of disease management. Regular exercise builds the heart, strengthens bones and muscles, and generally improves overall well-being.
The World Walking Day initiative provides an opportunity to promote healthy living beyond hospitals and medical facilities to communities, encouraging more people to engage in regular physical activity. Dr Boladale highlighted the social benefits of the initiative, stating that walking together fosters interaction, builds relationships, and strengthens community bonds. He also emphasized that exercise is beneficial to mental and emotional well-being, reducing stress and improving mood.
The Deputy Director of Physiotherapy at the hospital, Mr Alimi Talayo, noted that regular physical exercise improves blood circulation, sharpens the brain, and enhances the overall functioning of vital organs. He stressed the importance of movement to healthy living, explaining that exercise strengthens the heart to pump blood and oxygen efficiently to the brain, lungs, and other organs. This, he said, helps them function effectively.
Mr Talayo further highlighted that regular exercise improves fitness, endurance, and the ability to perform daily activities. He warned that a sedentary lifestyle could significantly reduce life expectancy. Talayo urged people to make regular physical activity part of their lifestyle, noting that consistent exercise often results in greater endurance and strength during physical activities.
The 2026 World Walking Day was observed under the theme: “Your baton, Your cause”. The initiative aims to promote movement, unity, community participation, and healthier lifestyles. Dr Boladale and Mr Talayo encouraged people to prioritize regular exercise, emphasizing its numerous physical, mental, and social benefits.
In conclusion, experts stress that incorporating regular exercise into daily life can significantly manage and prevent non-communicable diseases. They encourage individuals to prioritize physical activity, such as walking, to improve overall health and well-being. By making exercise a habit, people can reduce the risk of chronic diseases and promote a healthier lifestyle.
Key points
- Regular exercise reduces the burden of cardiovascular and other non-communicable diseases.
- Exercise improves physical, mental, and emotional well-being.
- A sedentary lifestyle can significantly reduce life expectancy.
