Do as I say, but not as I do! This popular saying represents Brazilian doctors when it comes to exercising. A study showed that 84% of them are sedentary. In other words, those who should be examples of a healthy life are, in fact, not.
The study by the Movement of Athlete Doctors showed that 16.2% report having high blood pressure; 10.4% high cholesterol; and 5% diabetes. Among those who do not exercise, 60% claim lack of time, 35% do not have the habit, and 20% do not like it. "Our study detected a physical inactivity rate of 84% among Brazilian doctors. The impact of the pandemic has worsened this rate even further," the survey states.
Endocrinologist and postgraduate in Sports Medicine, Gisele Lorenzoni, explained that it is essential to have physical exercise as a routine and lifestyle. "For us doctors, this is even more relevant. Patients look up to us. It is not enough to just recommend combating sedentarism," she stated.
The research supports Lorenzoni's position. "The health of doctors should receive special attention, as physically active doctors are more attentive to advising on exercise during consultations and achieving greater adherence to a more active lifestyle."
The study "Analysis of the practice of physical activities by Brazilian doctors and the impact of social isolation during the COVID-19 pandemic" also highlighted that "most doctors claim to recognize physical activity as an important part of the treatment for various diseases, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, obesity, depression, and cancer."
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