A study - conducted on people aged 70 years or older - found that increasing the number of walking steps by 500 steps per day (equivalent to approximately 400) may reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke or heart failure.

The study included 452 participants - average age 78 years - who used a pedometer, which is worn at the hip, and measures their daily steps.

The results showed that those who walked about 4,500 steps a day had a 77% lower risk of developing cardiovascular disease, compared to those who only walked fewer than 2,000 steps.

The study also found that every additional 500 steps taken per day was significantly associated with a 14% lower risk of cardiovascular disease.

The study was conducted by researchers led by Irene E. Dooley, Assistant Professor of Epidemiology at the University of Alabama at the Birmingham School of Public Health, and it was presented at the scientific sessions of the annual meeting of the American Heart Association, which was held from February 28 to March 3. Alert.

Maintain physical activity

"Most studies before have focused on early-to-middle-aged adults with daily walking goals of 10,000 steps or more, a ceiling that may not be achievable for older individuals," Dooley said.

"It is important to maintain physical activity as we age. However, daily step goals must also be met. We were surprised to find that every additional quarter mile (400 metres), or 500 steps, of walking had a strong heart health benefit."

"We don't want to underestimate the importance of high-intensity physical activity, but encouraging small increases in the number of daily steps also has significant cardiovascular benefits. If you're over 70, try walking an extra 500 steps every day," he explains.

And the American Heart Association said - in a statement issued - that it is possible to improve the health of the heart and blood vessels by following a special system that includes the following:

  • Eat healthy.

  • Doing physical activity.

  • Non-smoking.

  • Get enough sleep.

  • Maintain a healthy weight.

  • Controlling cholesterol levels.

  • Sugar control.

  • Control of blood pressure.