Meta-Analysis Links Stair Climbing to 39% Lower Heart-Death Risk in 480,000 People
Updated
Updated · Prevention Magazine · Aug 21
Meta-Analysis Links Stair Climbing to 39% Lower Heart-Death Risk in 480,000 People
2 articles · Updated · Prevention Magazine · Aug 21
Summary
More than 480,000 adults tracked for about 14 years showed regular stair users had a 39% lower risk of cardiovascular death and a 24% lower risk of death from any cause.
Nine studies pooled in the American Journal of Cardiovascular Drugs suggest stair climbing may help because it combines vigorous aerobic effort with muscle resistance, raising heart rate and blood pressure more than lighter activity.
Doctors said the findings show everyday movement can matter, but the analysis found an association rather than proof that stair climbing itself prevents early death because regular stair users may already be healthier.
A 2021 study of more than 280,000 people had already linked climbing more than five flights a day at home to lower early-death risk, with six to 10 flights tied to up to 55 extra days of life.
For people adding the habit, cardiologists recommended increasing stair use gradually, especially for those with a history of heart disease.