Achieving the seven heart-health metrics of the American Heart Association's Life's Simple 7 also helps reduce many other chronic diseases, according to a study presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2015.
Researchers analyzed the health information of 6,814 adults, who were followed for an average 10.2 years. Each component of the Life's Simple 7 metrics (smoking, body mass index, physical activity, diet, total cholesterol, blood pressure and blood glucose) was categorized into three levels: ideal, intermediate and poor. Rates of non-cardiovascular diseases overall were lower with improving Life's Simple 7 health status. They also found compared to those in the poor category, people in the ideal category of the Life's Simple 7 score had a:
- 20 percent lower risk for cancer;
- 62 percent lower risk for chronic kidney disease;
- 43 percent lower risk for pneumonia; and
- 49 percent lower risk for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
Researchers said their results suggest that achieving these seven ideal heart health metrics can reduce the burden of many chronic diseases.
###
Additional Resources:
For more news from the AHA's Scientific Sessions 2015 follow us on Twitter @HeartNews # AHA15.
Statements and conclusions of study authors that are presented at American Heart Association scientific meetings are solely those of the study authors and do not necessarily reflect association policy or position. The association makes no representation or warranty as to their accuracy or reliability. The association receives funding primarily from individuals; foundations and corporations (including pharmaceutical, device manufacturers and other companies) also make donations and fund specific association programs and events. The association has strict policies to prevent these relationships from influencing the science content. Revenues from pharmaceutical and device corporations are available at http://www.heart.org/corporatefunding.
For Media Inquiries and AHA Spokesperson Perspective:
AHA News Media in Dallas: (214) 706-1173
AHA News Media Office, Nov. 7-11, 2015
at the Orange County Convention Center: (407) 685-5401
For Public Inquiries: (800) AHA-USA1 (242-8721)
heart.org and strokeassociation.org
Life is why, science is how . . . we help people live longer, healthier lives.