Exercise & Fitness

Even small changes in physical activity may boost longevity

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By , Staff Writer
  • Reviewed by Robert H. Shmerling, MD, Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing
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A senior man uses a stationary bicycle in a sunlit room.studyThe Lancet

For the study, researchers combined results from studies in the United States, Sweden, Norway, and the United Kingdom that together included more than 135,000 adults. All of the studies used tracking devices to collect data on physical activity. Participants were followed for an average of eight years. Using statistical analyses, the researchers created hypothetical scenarios to estimate how small changes in daily activity might alter the risk of dying during this period.

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About the Author

photo of Lynne Christensen

Lynne Christensen, Staff Writer

Lynne Christensen is a staff writer who contributes articles to Harvard Health Publishing’s flagship website and its four newsletters: the Harvard Health Letter, Harvard Heart Letter, Harvard Women’s Health Watch, and Harvard Men’s Health Watch. She … See Full Bio
View all posts by Lynne Christensen

About the Reviewer

photo of Robert H. Shmerling, MD

Robert H. Shmerling, MD, Senior Faculty Editor, Harvard Health Publishing; Editorial Advisory Board Member, Harvard Health Publishing

Dr. Robert H. Shmerling is the former clinical chief of the division of rheumatology at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center (BIDMC), and is a current member of the corresponding faculty in medicine at Harvard Medical School. … See Full Bio
View all posts by Robert H. Shmerling, MD
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