1/2
July 26 (UPI) — Researchers from Michigan Medicine, the University of Missouri, and St. Luke’s Mid America Heart Institute have discovered that heart failure patients can experience fewer health limitations by increasing their daily step count, according to data from wearable devices that track steps per day.
The study, published in JACC: Heart Failure, takes a unique approach by examining the use of step-counters for individuals with heart issues.
In essence, the researchers found that more steps translated to better health outcomes, lending context to wearable device data from heart failure patients.
“This study, one of the first of its kind, helps us understand the meaning of physical activity data from wearable devices at both the population and individual levels,” said Dr. Jessica R. Golbus, lead author of the study and a clinical instructor at the University of Michigan’s Frankel Cardiovascular Center in Ann Arbor, specializing in heart-related conditions and transplantation.
The randomized trial involved over 400 patients and spanned a 12-week period, during which researchers analyzed data from activity monitors to determine the relationship between steps, total floors climbed, and physical symptoms.
The research revealed that baseline step counts between 1,000 and 5,000 steps were associated with significantly improved symptoms and fewer physical limitations.
As a point of reference, it generally takes 2,000 to 2,500 steps to cover a mile.
Dr. Brahmajee Nallamothu, a professor of internal medicine at the University of Michigan’s medical school, stated that wearable data trackers provide clinicians with valuable insights into patient behavior and health, as they can collect data in real-world settings over an extended period of time.
Meanwhile, researchers at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston found that the volume of exercise, rather than the pattern, had significant cardiovascular health benefits. The recommended 150 minutes of vigorous physical activity per week was shown to have positive effects on overall health.
“Our study suggests that it’s the volume of activity, rather than the pattern, that matters most in terms of cardiovascular health,” said lead researcher Dr. Shaan Khurshid.
Denial of responsibility! VigourTimes is an automatic aggregator of Global media. In each content, the hyperlink to the primary source is specified. All trademarks belong to their rightful owners, and all materials to their authors. For any complaint, please reach us at – [email protected]. We will take necessary action within 24 hours.
