The amount of the resting pulse shows an increased risk of death

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Increased resting heart rate increases the risk of premature death

How does our resting heart rate affect our overall life expectancy? Researchers have now found that a heart rate of 75 beats per minute at rest (BPM) in middle age appears to double the risk of premature death.

A recent study from the University of Gothenburg found that a resting heart rate of 75 beats per minute in middle age indicates the risk of premature death. The results of the study were published in the British magazine "Open Heart" of the British Medical Journal.

Chest chest pain may indicate coronary heart disease. (Image: Adiano / fotolia.com)

How does resting heart rate affect your health?

If men had a resting heart rate of 75 or older after age 50, they died twice more in the next two decades compared to men who had a resting heart rate of 55 or less, report the study authors . Each additional heart rate per minute was associated with a three percent higher premature death risk, the researchers continued. Additional heartbeats were also associated with a one percent increased risk for cardiovascular disease and a two percent higher coronary disease probability.

What is the resting heart rate?

The so-called resting heart rate indicates how often the organ beats per minute if you do not put extra effort or exercise. A normal value is between 50 and 100 beats per minute (bpm). A lower heart rate usually indicates better cardiovascular health and overall fitness.

798 men participated in the study

To find out how changes in heart rate can affect the risk of premature death, the researchers analyzed data from 798 men. All participants were born in 1943. As early as 1993, men completed a questionnaire about their lifestyle, stress, and family history of heart disease. They also underwent a medical examination, which included resting heart rate measurement. Participants were then divided into four groups: people with a resting heart rate of 55 bpm or less; 56 to 65 bpm; 66 to 75 bpm and more than 75 bpm. The resting heart rate was again measured between men in 2003 and 2014, who were still alive at the time and wanted to continue participating in the study.

What is coronary heart disease?

The so-called coronary disease occurs when the major blood vessels supplying the heart with oxygen and nutrients are damaged. This is usually due to plaque and inflammation. As the plaques build up, it narrows the arteries, reducing blood flow to the heart. Over time, this can lead to angina pectoris, while a complete blockage can trigger a heart attack. Many people initially do not have symptoms, but when plaques are established, they may experience chest pain or shortness of breath when exercising or being stressed. Other causes include smoking, diabetes and a sedentary and inactive lifestyle.

How can I prevent coronary heart disease?

Coronary artery disease can be prevented by stopping smoking, controlling conditions such as diabetes or high blood pressure, staying active, eating healthy and avoiding stress. Medications can help lower cholesterol and aspirin, for example, can dilute blood to reduce the risk of blood clots. In severe cases, stents can also be introduced into the arteries to open them, and in myocardial revascularization surgery, a vessel is transplanted from other parts of the body to bypass blocked arteries.

What results have been found?

During the 21-year study period, 119 of the participants (just under 15%) died before their 71 years. And 237 men (almost 28%) developed cardiovascular disease. This is a general term for conditions that affect the heart or blood vessels. About 113 participants (slightly more than 14 percent) developed coronary artery disease, which blocks or interrupts the circulation of the heart through the coronary arteries. The results showed that people with a resting heart rate of 75 or greater in 1993 died twice more at 21 years compared to patients with a heart rate of 55 bpm or less.

With a stable heart rate at rest between 1993 and 2003, when men were 50-60 years old, the risk of cardiovascular disease was 44 percent lower in the next 11 years compared to those with heart rate during that period. Increased age. Men with a heart rate above 55 bpm in 1993 were more likely to be smokers, sedentary or stressed. They also often suffer from typical risk factors for heart disease, such as hypertension or obesity.