A growing body of research demonstrates the strong correlation between VO2max and overall health, including a reduced risk of chronic diseases and improved longevity. This document outline objective reasons why insurance operators should consider incorporating VO2max estimation into their health evaluations.

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VO2max, or maximal oxygen uptake, measures the body's efficiency in utilizing oxygen during exercise. It reflects the integrated function of the cardiovascular, respiratory, and muscular systems, providing a comprehensive picture of an individual's physical capacity and overall health.

The American Heart Association (AHA) recognizes VO2max as a crucial health metric, stating:"Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) is a potentially stronger predictor of mortality than established risk factors (…) At a minimum, all adults should have CRF estimated each year."

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Low VO2max is strongly associated with an increased risk of various chronic diseases, including:

• Cardiovascular disease: Heart disease and stroke remain leading causes of death
   and disability, and low VO2max is a significant risk factor

• Metabolic disorders: Low VO2max is linked to an increased risk of type 2 diabetes,

   metabolic syndrome, and obesity

• Mental health: Studies show a correlation between low VO2max and an increased  
   risk of depression and anxiety

• Cancer: Research suggests that higher VO2max may be associated with a reduced
   risk of certain cancers, including breast and prostate cancer

• Musculoskeletal health: Low VO2max can contribute to decreased bone density,
   muscle weakness, and increased risk of falls.

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The AHA projects that by 2050, the cost of cardiovascular disease and stroke could triple to USD 1.8 trillion1. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for preventive health measures.

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The significance of VO2max as a strong indicator of health is particularly useful when considering how research shows even small actions provide measurable effects. Either improving or even just maintaining VO2max is shown to yield measurable health benefits.
It is well established that individuals with low VO2max are more likely to require hospitalizations,emergency care, and ongoing medical treatment. In a recent study from the European Journal of Preventive Cardiology researchers identified a link between VO2max and hospital re-admission where, both those who increased their VO2max and those who maintained saw a lower hospital re-admission rate with up to 20% and 14% for the groups, respectively2

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By including VO2max estimation in health evaluations, citizens can be provided valuable insights that empower individuals to take control of their health. This proactive approach can lead to:

• Early risk identification: Identifying individuals with low VO2max allows for early intervention and targeted lifestyle changes to reduce
   disease risk.

• Personalized interventions: VO2max data can guide personalized exercise prescriptions and other health recommendations.

• Motivation and engagement: Tracking VO2max improvements can motivate individuals to maintain healthy habits and achieve better
   outcomes.

• Cost savings: By preventing or delaying the onset of chronic diseases, VO2max-guided interventions can contribute to significant
   healthcare cost savings.

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Incorporating VO2max estimation into health evaluations represents a proactive and cost-effective strategy for improving population health and reducing the burden of chronic diseases.The evidence clearly supports the value of VO2max as a powerful predictor of health and a valuable tool for guiding personalized interventions.