A new study from researchers at NYU Langone Health has found that moderate physical activity can reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation by up to 65%. The investigation, which used data from over 6,000 men and women wearing Fitbit fitness trackers, suggests that even modest amounts of exercise can have a significant impact on heart health.
The study analyzed data from participants who completed questionnaires, gave blood samples, and had their physical measurements recorded as part of the All of Us program. The researchers found that those with higher amounts of weekly physical activity were less likely to develop atrial fibrillation. Specifically, participants who averaged between 2.5 and 5 hours per week showed a 60% lower risk of developing the condition.
Preventive cardiologist Sean Heffron, MD, said in a statement that “our findings make clear that you do not need to start running marathons to help prevent atrial fibrillation and other forms of heart disease.” He noted that even moderate activity can add up to major benefits for maintaining a healthy heart.
The study’s authors used data from the Fitbit device to objectively measure physical activity in the participants, which they say is an important advancement over earlier studies. The researchers plan to explore whether working out at different times of day has different effects on heart health and are also looking into the potential role of other factors such as income or educational status.
The findings were presented at the annual meeting of the American Heart Association on November 16, and the study is available online.
Source: https://scitechdaily.com/study-just-one-extra-hour-of-exercise-each-week-can-reduce-your-risk-for-common-heart-condition