2.5 hours per week of moderate-intensity physical activity is associated with what percent reduction in overall mortality risk?

• A. 5%
• B. 10%
• C. 30%
• D. 20%

Answer: (D)

Engaging about 2.5 hours per week of moderate-intensity activity lowers the chance of dying from any cause. This amount, roughly 150 minutes weekly, is the minimum guideline level that has been consistently linked with a meaningful decrease in all-cause mortality—about a 20% reduction in risk. The benefits come from improvements across cardiovascular and metabolic health—better blood pressure, cholesterol, insulin sensitivity, weight management, and reduced inflammation—which collectively reduce the likelihood of fatal diseases.

While more activity can yield additional protection, the typical effect seen at this dose centers around a one-fifth reduction. Smaller reductions like 5% or 10% are not what the data at this activity level generally show, and a 30% improvement would usually be associated with higher total weekly activity or different study populations.