Exercise Physiology as a Public Health Tool for Combating Non-Communicable Diseases in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Perspective

This is a preprint manuscript exploring the role of exercise physiology in addressing the rising burden of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) in Sub-Saharan Africa. Non-communicable diseases (NCDs), including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, cancer, and chronic respiratory conditions, account for over 70% of global mortality. Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) is experiencing a rapid rise in NCD prevalence, driven by urbanisation, ageing populations, and lifestyle transitions. Physical inactivity has emerged as a critical modifiable risk factor, contributing to poor health outcomes and escalating healthcare costs in the region. Exercise physiology, the scientific study of the body’s response to physical activity, provides evidence-based interventions for both prevention and rehabilitation of NCDs. Despite its established efficacy in high-income countries, clinical exercise physiology remains underutilised in SSA due to resource constraints, limited public awareness, and a lack of integration into healthcare systems. This perspective paper highlights the potential of exercise physiology as a cost-effective, scalable tool for public health in SSA. It reviews evidence linking physical activity with improved cardiometabolic outcomes, examines systemic barriers to adoption, and offers strategies for embedding exercise-based programs within community and national health initiatives. By bridging the gap between science, policy, and practice, exercise physiology can contribute to reducing the NCD burden and fostering healthier, more resilient populations across Sub-Saharan Africa.