A recent study published in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise has found that objective physical activity is the strongest predictor of all-cause mortality. Researchers from the University of Colorado and Johns Hopkins University, along with a biostatistician from the University of Minnesota, analyzed data from 3,653 Americans aged 50 to 80 who wore wearable devices for a week between 2011 and 2014.
The study found that the level of physical activity measured by these devices is a better predictor of death risk than factors such as obesity, diabetes, smoking, or heart disease. The researchers discovered that the amount of physical activity during the 10 most active hours of the day is particularly significant in predicting mortality risk.
According to Erjia Cui, lead researcher on the study, physical activity measures are a stronger predictor of death risk than age, and can be used to identify individuals at lower risk. While the study only shows association, not causation, the wealth of research supporting the health benefits of exercise suggests that regular physical activity is crucial for overall well-being.
The findings emphasize the importance of incorporating more physical activity into daily life, especially during daylight hours. With wearable devices readily available on smartphones, tracking progress has never been easier. Cui encourages individuals to take notice of their activity numbers and strive for more exercise, as it can have a significant impact on mortality risk.
Source: https://www.startribune.com/move-or-die-new-study-shows-activity-is-top-predictor-of-when-you-might-die/601200361