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Dr. Kim Mulvihill ReportingWe've all heard that exercise is good for our hearts, but what about people whose hearts give out after sudden bursts of exercise? Past research has always looked at the risks for men, but a new study is the first to examine sudden cardiac death in women.
With summer around the corner, this is the time of year a lot of women get serious about working out. But after months of sitting around, could these sudden bursts of exercise be hazardous to their health?
A new study in the Journal of the American Medical Association finds women who suddenly start exerting themselves are at a higher risk for sudden cardiac death, but only slightly.
Dr. Christine Albert, M.D., Brigham and Women's Hospital: "There was only one sudden cardiac death for every 36.5 million hours these women exercised. So it is actually very rare."
Dr. Christine Albert of Brigham and Women's Hospital in Boston was among researchers who tracked the health and exercise habits of about 85-thousand middle-aged women over 14 years. It was the first study like it on women, and results show the risks for women much lower than their male counterparts.
Dr. Christine Albert, M.D.: "It was more common for men to have their sudden cardiac death occur during exertion than for women."
Doctors say the risks for both sexes are relatively low and shouldn't discourage anyone from exercise. It's a good idea to start slow and work up to a regular exercise regimen. That's when you really see the benefits. Women who exercise four or more hours per week reduce their risk of sudden cardiac death during exercise by 60 percent.
It's welcome news to those who already work out on a regular basis and advice that all women can literally take to heart.
Researchers say they still don't know why women have a lower risk of sudden cardiac death during exercise than men. As always, they recommend talking with your doctor before beginning an exercise regimen.
