A study using Fitbit data found that low daily steps in adults over 40 are linked to a higher risk of neurological conditions like dementia and Parkinson's.
Study links low step counts to neurological risks
A study analyzing Fitbit data from over 22,500 adults aged 40 or older found a link between low daily step counts and an increased risk of neurological conditions such as dementia, Parkinson's disease, stroke, and transient ischemic attack (TIA). The research was presented during the 151st annual meeting of the American Neurological Association and followed participants for about five years through their medical records.Participants grouped by activity levels
Participants had at least 180 days of Fitbit data during the first year, and three groups were identified based on their average daily steps: approximately 4,800 for the least active, 8,300 for the intermediate group, and 12,600 for the most active. In total, 343 participants received one of the studied diagnoses.Higher risk for least active group
The least active group showed a rate of 3.81 events per 1,000 person-years compared to 2.12 among the most active, representing an approximately 80% higher rate. This suggests a correlation between lower physical activity and the occurrence of these neurological conditions.Study does not confirm prevention
The study did not demonstrate that walking more would directly prevent these diseases, but it suggested that a sustained decrease in activity could be a signal to pay attention to one's health. Researchers also examined the health status of the participants, noting factors such as diabetes, hypertension, and depression, which may contribute to the observed link.
