Editorial Team
... Read More
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookie Policy.
Written By: Editorial Team | Updated : March 29, 2014 4:01 PM IST
What are the effects of exercise training in patients suffering from cardiovascular disease? In a new study, exercise was found to lower risk of mortality or hospitalization by 26 percent in women and 10 percent in men.
The clinical trial involved 2,331 patients who were instructed to participate in either a formal exercise program with optimal medical therapy, or optimal medical therapy only.
Those participating in the exercise program performed supervised walking or stationary cycling for 30 minutes three days per week for six weeks. Following 18 complete sessions, patients added 40 minutes of home-based exercise two days a week. Patients transitioned to a five-day-per-week, 40-minutes-a-day home-based exercise program after completing 36 supervised sessions. (Read: Stave off heart disease, eat fibre rich foods)
The study is said to be the first to show the link between exercise and its effects on women with heart disease.
'Heart disease has a major impact on women. Our goal is for these findings to greatly impact the management of this challenging syndrome,' said Ileana Pi a of Montefiore Medical Center in New York. (Read: Beware! Your cellphone can be bad for your heart!)
Despite women's being twice as likely as men to develop heart failure following a heart attack or cardiac ischemia, health professionals are more likely to recommend exercise programs to male, according to Montefiore Medical Center.
'Findings suggest physicians should consider exercise as a component of treatment for female patients with heart failure, as they do for male patients,' said Dr. Pi a
The study was published in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology: Heart Failure. (Read: Expert tips to prevent heart disease)
Health benefits of exercise
Exercise is essential in maintaining flexibility, strengthening muscles, and boosting the immune system. It keeps various diseases at bay and helps in weight loss, increasing stamina and releases endorphins. Exercise in any form are like running, swimming, cycling is good for health. Here' s how simple running can help you to stay healthy.
With inputs from AFP
You may also like to read:
For more articles on heart disease and women's health, visit our heart disease and women's health section, respectively. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. And to join discussions on health topics of your choice, visit our forum.
