Light intensity activities, such as walking or household chores, were associated with a lower risk of death for people with cardiovascular-kidney-metabolic (CKM) syndrome, according to new research published today in the Journal of the American Heart Association. The study, which analyzed data from about 7,200 adults, found that a one-hour increase in light physical activity each day was linked to a 14% to 20% lower risk of death over 14 years for individuals in CKM stages 2, 3, and 4.
CKM syndrome, a condition that includes heart disease, kidney disease, diabetes and obesity, affects nearly 90% of U.S. adults when considering at least one component like high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol, or excess weight. The syndrome is staged from 0 to 4, with higher numbers indicating greater risk. The study highlights that light physical activity, which does not cause breathlessness, may be particularly beneficial for those in advanced stages where moderate-to-vigorous exercise is often not feasible.
Using accelerometer data from the 2003-2006 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey, researchers measured activity levels and categorized CKM stages based on health parameters. Lead author Joseph Sartini, a Ph.D. candidate at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, noted: "Light physical activity is an overlooked treatment tool that can help improve heart health for people with CKM syndrome." The association was most pronounced in stage 4, where increasing activity from 90 minutes to two hours daily was linked to a 4.2% risk reduction, compared to 2.2% in stage 2.
Bethany Barone Gibbs, Ph.D., FAHA, an American Heart Association volunteer not involved in the study, emphasized the importance of this research: "We know less about the health impacts of light-intensity activities compared to more intense physical activity. Light intensity activities provide a great opportunity to promote energy expenditure, movement and circulation - all healthy physiological processes." The study's observational nature means it cannot establish causation, but the findings suggest that even modest increases in daily movement could yield significant benefits.
The American Heart Association's CKM Health Initiative provides resources for managing the condition. The study authors recommend light activities like yoga, casual walking, and household chores as accessible options for patients who may struggle with more intense exercise.
