As we have improved health conditions world-wide, there has been a shift in management of infectious disease to chronic diseases. 

Physical Activity can be incorporated into all 3 levels of disease prevention with the goal of improved health outcomes.

Primary Prevention: health promoting interventions prior to the onset of disease, aimed at decreasing incidence and prevalence of disease.

Secondary: After the disease has occurred, but before the person experiences signs & symptoms of the disease. Early detection and prompt treatment.

Tertiary: Aimed at the person who is currently experiencing the disease process. Interventions are aimed at preventing increased symptoms (ex: pain control), or damage from the disease. Offering quality care to our patients, reducing or preventing further complications, rehabilitation efforts (this could include physical activity) with the goal of returning to normal.

Healthy behaviors, such as appropriate levels of physical activity can increase lifespan, decrease disability, improve mental health and cognition and ultimately lower the cost of healthcare.