Regular Stair-Climbing Reduces Heart Disease Death Risk

A review published in the American Journal of Cardiovascular Drugs indicates that regular stair-climbing significantly reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and overall mortality. Researchers from the University of East Anglia and Norfolk and Norwich University Hospital in the United Kingdom analyzed nine studies involving 480,479 participants aged 35 to 84, with a median follow-up period of 14 years.

The findings revealed a 39% lower risk of dying from cardiovascular disease and a 24% lower risk of death from any cause among those who regularly climbed stairs. The study suggested that noticeable cardiovascular benefits began at around six flights of stairs or approximately 60 to 70 steps daily.

However, the researchers noted that the review could not determine the exact amount of stair-climbing necessary for heart protection. Cardiologist Paul Drury emphasized that even short bursts of activity can contribute to lower cardiovascular risk.

Future studies using wearable activity trackers may provide more accurate data on stair-climbing's impact on cardiovascular health.