Cardiovascular diseases are, to a large extent, preventable through actions such as exercise. However, more than one in four adults worldwide do not achieve recommended levels of physical activity. climb the stairs, A practical and easily accessible form of physical activity that is often overlooked.
Research presented at the ESC Preventive Cardiology 2024 scientific congress of the European Society of Cardiology (ESC) revealed that Climbing stairs may be associated with a longer life. Dr. Sophie Paddock, author of the study and member of the University of East Anglia and Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital Foundation Truststated, “If you have the option to take the stairs or the elevator, choose the stairs because they will help your heart.”
A woman climbing the stairs.
Paddock explained that “even short periods of physical activity have beneficial effects on health, and climbing stairs for short periods should be an achievable goal that can be integrated into your daily routine.”
Even short periods of physical activity have beneficial effects on health
Prevention of cardiovascular diseases
This study investigated whether climbing stairs could play a role in reducing the risks of cardiovascular disease and premature death. The authors conducted a meta-analysis of the best available evidence on the topic. Nine studies were included 480,479 participants, both healthy and those with a history of heart attack or peripheral arterial disease. The ages ranged from 35 to 84 years, and 53% of the participants were women.
The results showed that climbing stairs was associated with a 24% lower risk of dying from any cause and a 39% lower chance of dying from cardiovascular disease, compared to those who don’t climb stairs. A reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, including heart attack, heart failure and stroke, has also been found.
Dr. Paddock concluded: “Based on these findings, We encourage people to incorporate stair climbing into their daily lives.. Our study suggested that the more stairs you climb, the greater the benefits, but this needs to be confirmed. So, at work, at home or anywhere else, use the stairs.”
Climbing stairs, a simple and accessible activity, can significantly help you live a healthier, longer life.
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Interview between the Time.news Editor and Dr. Sophie Paddock
Editor: Welcome, Dr. Paddock! Thank you for joining us today. Your recent research is making waves, particularly your findings about climbing stairs. Can you share with our audience the key takeaway from your study at the ESC Preventive Cardiology 2024 congress?
Dr. Paddock: Thank you for having me! Our key takeaway is that climbing stairs can play a significant role in promoting longevity and cardiovascular health. It’s a simple yet effective way to incorporate physical activity into our daily lives, which is especially crucial since many adults worldwide do not meet recommended activity levels.
Editor: That’s fascinating! Many people often overlook such an accessible activity. What do you think holds people back from choosing the stairs over the elevator?
Dr. Paddock: There are several factors at play. Convenience is a big one; elevators are often viewed as the easier option. Additionally, many people may underestimate the health benefits of short bursts of physical activity, not realizing that even a few minutes of climbing stairs can contribute positively to their overall health.
Editor: Your study emphasizes that even short periods of physical activity can be beneficial. Can you elaborate on that?
Dr. Paddock: Absolutely. Our research shows that even brief instances of physical activity—like taking the stairs—can lead to immediate health benefits, such as improved heart function and enhanced mood. We encourage people to see these short activities as achievable goals. Climbing stairs can easily fit into your daily routine without requiring a significant time commitment.
Editor: That’s a great perspective. It sounds like a mindset shift is necessary. How can individuals be motivated to incorporate stair climbing into their daily routine?
Dr. Paddock: One of the best ways is to build it into your daily habits. For instance, if you live in a building with stairs, make it a point to use them whenever possible. You could challenge yourself or even involve friends or family. Adding a social element can make it more enjoyable! Plus, setting small, realistic goals can help create a sustainable routine.
Editor: I love the idea of making it a social activity! Given that many adults fall short of recommended physical activity levels, what broader societal changes do you think could help promote more stair climbing or physical activity?
Dr. Paddock: That’s an important question. Urban planning can play a crucial role; designing buildings and public spaces that encourage stair use through easy access and visibility can make a difference. Additionally, public health campaigns that raise awareness about the benefits of physical activity in simple forms—like stair climbing—could motivate more people to take action.
Editor: It certainly sounds promising. Looking ahead, what are your next steps in this research field? Do you plan to explore other simple physical activities that can have similar benefits?
Dr. Paddock: Yes, absolutely! We hope to expand our research to include other forms of everyday physical activity. The goal is to make it easier for individuals to incorporate these habits into their lives and build a culture that prioritizes small, attainable physical activities that contribute to a healthier lifestyle.
Editor: Dr. Paddock, thank you for your insightful contributions today! Your research is a valuable reminder of how small changes can lead to significant health benefits.
Dr. Paddock: Thank you for the opportunity to share our findings! Let’s continue to advocate for making physical activity a more integrated part of our daily lives.