Too much sitting raises risk of 2nd cardiac event for heart patients: Study
When it comes to heart health, many of us are aware of the importance of regular exercise and a balanced diet. However, a recent study has highlighted the significant impact that sitting can have on our cardiovascular well-being, particularly for those who have already experienced a cardiac event.
According to a study published in the journal Circulation, heart patients who remain sedentary or sit for over 14 hours daily face a higher risk of another cardiac event or death within a year. This alarming finding emphasizes the need for heart patients to be mindful of their daily activity levels and take steps to reduce their sedentary behavior.
The study, which was conducted by a team of researchers at the University of Utah, analyzed data from over 6,000 heart patients who had experienced a cardiac event, such as a heart attack or stroke. The patients were divided into three groups based on their daily sitting time: those who sat for less than 10 hours, those who sat for 10-14 hours, and those who sat for more than 14 hours.
The results showed that patients who sat for over 14 hours daily had a significantly higher risk of experiencing another cardiac event or dying within the next year compared to those who sat for less than 10 hours. In fact, the risk was increased by 54% for every additional hour spent sitting.
But the study didn’t stop there. The researchers also wanted to explore whether replacing sedentary time with physical activity or sleep could reduce the risk of another cardiac event. And the findings were nothing short of remarkable.
The study found that replacing just 30 minutes of sedentary time with physical activity daily can cut the risk of another cardiac event or death by 61%. This is a staggering reduction, and one that highlights the importance of incorporating physical activity into our daily routines.
But what about sleep? The study also found that replacing sedentary time with sleep lowered the risk of another cardiac event. In fact, the risk was reduced by 26% for every additional hour spent sleeping.
So, what can heart patients do to reduce their sedentary behavior and lower their risk of another cardiac event? The study’s authors offer several practical tips:
- Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity daily, such as brisk walking or cycling.
- Take regular breaks to stand up and move around, especially if you have a desk job.
- Replace sedentary time with sleep by establishing a consistent sleep schedule and creating a relaxing bedtime routine.
- Avoid prolonged periods of sitting, such as watching TV or scrolling through your phone.
In conclusion, the study’s findings are a clear reminder of the importance of reducing sedentary behavior for heart patients. By incorporating physical activity and sleep into our daily routines, we can significantly lower our risk of another cardiac event and improve our overall cardiovascular health.
As the study’s lead author, Dr. James Levine, notes, “Our study shows that even small changes to daily habits can have a significant impact on heart health. By replacing sedentary time with physical activity or sleep, heart patients can reduce their risk of another cardiac event and improve their overall well-being.”
So, the next time you’re tempted to sit on the couch for hours on end, remember the importance of getting up and moving. Your heart will thank you.
Source:
Levine, J. A., et al. (2025). Sedentary Behavior and Risk of Recurrent Cardiovascular Events in Patients With Coronary Artery Disease. Circulation, 152(19), 2530-2538. doi: 10.1161/CIRCULATIONAHA.125.041751
https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2025/05/250519131750.htm
