Even small amounts of physical activity can lower the risk of stroke and premature death in people living with atrial fibrillation, a major Norwegian study has revealed. Researchers reported their findings in an article published in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
The long-term study analyzed data from more than 87,000 residents of Norway who were observed over a period of approximately 15 years. Among the participants, more than 6,500 individuals suffered from atrial fibrillation, a heart rhythm disorder capable of causing dangerous blood clots and leading to a stroke.
Reduced stroke and mortality risks
Compared with sedentary individuals, study participants with a low level of physical activity had a 9 percent lower risk of suffering a stroke. Those with a medium level of activity reduced their stroke risk by 19 percent, while participants with high activity levels saw an 18 percent reduction.
The benefits extended to overall mortality as well. The risk of death from any cause dropped by 11 percent for those with low activity levels, 18 percent for medium activity, and 22 percent for high activity. For people with atrial fibrillation, regular physical activity was also linked to an increase in average life expectancy of 0.5 to 1.2 years.
Importance of regular movement
The authors of the study emphasized that for patients with atrial fibrillation, even a moderate increase in physical mobility can be effective in preventing strokes and early death. They indicated that minor adjustments in daily routine can yield measurable health benefits.
Atrial fibrillation is a medical condition characterized by an irregular and often rapid heart rate that can impair blood flow. The Journal of the American Heart Association is an open-access, peer-reviewed scientific journal published on behalf of the American Heart Association. Norway is a Scandinavian nation located in Northern Europe.
The findings add to ongoing scientific research into how daily lifestyle choices influence cardiovascular health. In earlier research, scientists found that habits such as going to bed very early or very late also increase the risk of suffering a heart attack.
