Regular physical activity lowers the risk of heart failure and overall mortality more noticeably in women than in men, a finding reported by HealthDay.
The study analyzed data from more than 400,000 adults aged 27 to 61, followed for an average of two decades. The message is clear: staying active matters for longevity.
Overall, regular exercise lowered the risk of premature death from any cause by 24% in women and 15% in men. The heart health benefits were even more striking. Women who were physically active had a 36% lower risk of dying from heart failure, stroke, or another cardiovascular event, while active men saw a 14% reduction. The authors note that anatomical and physiological differences between the sexes may help explain these variations.
Any form of movement counted. Brisk walking, resistance training, and other activities all contributed to the protective effect. The researchers also highlighted that women, on average, engage in exercise less often than men, hoping the findings will encourage more widespread activity among women.
Earlier findings from scientists showed that walking 3,600 steps per day at a normal pace can reduce heart failure risk by about 26%. The work underscores the idea that moderate daily activity can have meaningful heart benefits for many people. In previous clinical guidance, doctors emphasized essential measures for hypertensive patients, including regular physical activity as a cornerstone of management. HealthDay and other researchers continue to build a picture of how everyday habits translate into real health outcomes, reinforcing that even small, consistent efforts can yield substantial long-term gains.