Walking and moving more lowers the risk of cardiovascular death for post menopausal women with a history of cancer

Taking more steps and moving more is associated with a significantly reduced risk of death from cardiovascular disease for post menopausal women with a history of cancer according to research presented by the American Heart Association.

Cancer survivors are at an increased risk of death from cardiovascular disease, according to a 2019 scientific statement from the Association. This latest research found that engaging in 1 hour per day of moderate to vigorous physical activity reduced the risk of death of the women from any cause by 40% and risk of death from cardiovascular disease by 60%. After adjusting for age, ethnicity, lifestyle and risk factors for cardiovascular disease, cancer type and years since cancer diagnosis the researchers found that each additional 2,500 steps per day was incrementally associated with a 34% reduction in risk. The greatest benefit was seen among participants who logged 5,000-6,000 steps per day.

The study followed 2,500 post menopausal women between the ages of 63 and 99 years for around 8 years. The participants included those diagnosed with breast or other cancers at least one year before enrolling in the study.