Long perceived as a mere leisure activity, the practice of physical and sporting activities is now recognized as a pillar of public health.
Tertiary prevention concerns people already suffering from a chronic illness, a disability or who are in a fragile situation, such as seniors.
Primary prevention through sport aims to prevent the onset of disease. It is relevant to the entire population, as the benefits of regular physical activity are universal. First, sport helps maintain a healthy weight and prevent obesity, a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Second, it strengthens the immune system, making the body more resistant to infections. Furthermore, regular exercise has a beneficial effect on mental health by reducing stress, anxiety, and the risk of depression. Finally, sport improves sleep quality, an often overlooked but
essential aspect of good health. Consequently, public health campaigns are increasing to encourage people to be more active. The goal is to encourage everyone to integrate physical activity into their daily lives, whether through walking, cycling, or recreational sports.
Tertiary prevention: sport as therapy
Tertiary prevention concerns people already living with a chronic illness, a disability, or who are frail, such as seniors. Indeed, far from being contraindicated, physical activity, when adapted to one’s health condition, becomes a true therapy. It aims to slow the progression of the disease, reduce complications, and improve independence and quality of life. For example, for people suffering from cardiovascular disease, adapted physical activity (APA) helps strengthen the heart and improve blood circulation. In cancer patients, it helps them better tolerate harsh treatments (chemotherapy, radiotherapy) and reduces fatigue. Similarly, for people with diabetes, regular physical exercise helps regulate blood sugar levels.
From then onAdapted physical activity (APA) is supervised by qualified professionals who develop personalized and safe programs in collaboration with the patient’s doctor. This is why medical prescriptions for physical activity are becoming increasingly common in many countries. It represents an integrated and personalized approach to care, placing the patient at the center of their treatment.
The challenges and prospects of the future
Despite its proven benefits, the development of exercise on prescription faces several challenges. The first is financial: the cost of prescriptions and adapted physical activity (APA) sessions is not always fully covered by healthcare systems. Furthermore, it is essential to train more professionals to supervise this practice and ensure its safety and effectiveness. Finally, access to sports facilities and APA programs must be made more equitable across the country. Promoting sport as a health tool is an innovative and promising approach. It symbolizes a transition toward more preventive and less curative medicine, where the patient becomes an active participant in their own health. Sport is no longer just a passion or a leisure activity; it is an essential ally for prolonging healthy life and improving prognosis.
