Stair climbing is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality, researchers said while presenting a paper at the European Society of Cardiology conference
If pumping weights or doing a daily run are not your cups of tea, then take heart. Just shunning the lift and taking the stairs every day can have a similarly healthy effect on your heart.
This was the conclusion researchers reached after a review of over 700 published articles on the issue. They presented their conclusion at the ongoing conference of the European Society of Cardiology. “Physical activity in the form of stair climbing is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular and all-cause mortality. These findings highlight the importance of promoting everyday activities, even within the workplace and home, to foster healthier lifestyles and mitigate the risks associated with cardiovascular diseases,” they told the conference, making it clear that they were not expecting these results when they embarked on the project.
Physical inactivity causes a significant burden from cardiovascular disease worldwide. As sedentary behaviours and associated health risks become increasingly prevalent, there is a growing imperative to explore accessible and practical strategies to mitigate cardiovascular risk. This systematic review and meta-analysis aims to evaluate the association between physical activity in the form of stair climbing and cardiovascular risk.
India has a high burden of heart and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) with largescale food and lifestyle changes in both its urban and rural populations. According to a 2023 article in The Lancet Regional Health (southeast Asia), in 2017, CVD was responsible for 26.6% of total deaths and 13.6% of total DALYs in India, compared with 15.2% and 6.9% respectively, in 1990.
Not many may be able to afford a gym or a trainer or have the time and discipline to do regular exercise. These findings mean staying active for the sake of one’s heart can come at no cost.