The Effects of Physical Activity on Stroke and
Myocardial Infarction
Katie Sekola, Johannah Hollobaugh, Chloe Simmerman, Jesse Wright
Introduction
Heart disease is one of the major causes
of death worldwide. Researchers are
analyzing the correlation between different
intensities of physical activity and the incidence
of heart attack and stroke compared to those
who spend most of their time sedentary.
Lifestyle changes, like physical activity, are key
in preventing myocardial infarction (MI)
and stroke. 
Nursing Significance
Patient teaching about healthy lifestyle
changes are a huge part of nursing care
especially for discharge to prevent and
manage cardiovascular diseases. Nurses
need to observe patients for a willingness to
change and their readiness to learn. It is
important to discuss that 150 minutes of
cardiovascular exercise or more a week is
good for the patient's overall health and
wellness. Along with this, printing off exercises
and writing down instructions is beneficial for
the patient because they are overwhelmed
with information prior to discharge. Nurses
also need to collaborate with other
professions to get resources to maximize the
outcome for this type of patient.
Bitonte College of Health and Human Services
Research Question Conclusion
It was concluded that physical activity does
lower the risk for both stroke and MI. A
In patients who have heart disease,
correlation was found between differences in
does physical activity help prevent strokes
the intensity of physical activity and the risk
or heart attacks compared to those that do
for stroke and MI, meaning that the more
not do physical activity?
activity that was done, the lower the risk.
Research also showed a relationship
between muscle strength, sedentary time,
calories burned, and a change in physical
activity over time to the risk of stroke and MI.
Overall, physical activity is beneficial when it
comes to stroke and MI risk in those with
heart disease.
References
References available on request.
Summary of Research Findings
• Physical activity is indirectly proportional
to age of onset of stroke.
• Increased muscle strength led to a
decrease in risk of stroke.
• Different levels of physical activity
decreased risk of stroke differently.
• Light and moderate physical activity were
shown to decrease the risk of myocardial
infarction.
• Cardiovascular disease in general is
decreased with 150+ minutes of exercise
weekly.
Centofanti School of Nursing