Physical activities we engage in during our daily lives, such as at work or at home, may not be sufficient in protecting us from having a stroke. However, research from the University of Gothenburg shows that exercising during leisure time and using active modes of transport can be linked to a decreased risk of stroke. Lead author Adam Viktorisson emphasizes the importance of physical activity outside of traditional work and home settings, especially as many jobs and domestic activities are becoming more sedentary.
The research study involved 3,614 participants from the Västra Götaland region, with 269 people experiencing a stroke over a twenty-year period. Among those who suffered from a stroke, 120 individuals either died or needed assistance with daily activities three months post-stroke. Data on physical activity was collected through surveys and some participants were also given pedometers to track their activity levels. Results showed a connection between physical activity during leisure time or as transportation and objective measurements from the pedometers, while physical activity at work did not have the same protective effects.
Despite the well-known health benefits of physical activity, previous studies have primarily focused on recreational physical activity. Recent research has pointed to potential negative health impacts of physical activity at work, which could increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Adam Viktorisson highlights the importance of when and how physical activity is carried out, indicating that physical activities during leisure time and transportation are associated with a reduced risk of stroke, while activities at work or at home may not provide the same protective benefits.
Physically demanding jobs often come with stress, limited opportunities for recovery, air pollution, and poorer socioeconomic conditions, which can counteract the positive effects of physical activity. The study utilized data from the INTERGENE cohort at the University of Gothenburg, collected between 2001 and 2004. The researchers hope that these findings will raise awareness and lead to changes in public health policy, promoting physical activity in society. Encouraging people to engage in physical activities such as walking, cycling, and other forms of exercise in their daily routines could be a crucial strategy in reducing the incidence of strokes and improving the prognosis for those who experience a stroke.
In conclusion, the research from the University of Gothenburg highlights the importance of leisure-time physical activity and active modes of transport in reducing the risk of stroke. Physical activity at work or at home may not offer the same protective benefits, and physically demanding jobs could even increase the risk of cardiovascular disease. Adam Viktorisson stresses the significance of incorporating physical activity into daily routines, as this can have a significant impact on stroke prevention and recovery outcomes. By promoting public health policies that encourage people to be more active in their daily lives, the number of strokes could potentially be reduced, ultimately improving the overall health outcomes of individuals in society.