Stroke survivors who walk for just 30 minutes in a day, as recommended in guidelines, reduce their mortality risk by more than half, suggests a new study published in the journal Neurology.

The study examined 895 people, average age 72 years who had a prior stroke and 97,805 people (average age 63 years) who had never had a stroke. The follow up period was for four and half years. PA was measured as metabolic equivalents (METs) per week and meeting minimal PA guidelines was defined as 10 MET-hours/week.

During the study period, 25% stroke survivors died due to any cause compared to 6% in those who had never suffered a stroke.

The study found that people who walk or garden at least 3-4 hours per week, or bike at least 2-3 hours per week, or the equivalent after having a stroke had a 54% lower risk of death from any cause

An important observation was that mortality was lower in stroke survivors who walked for 3-4 hours (10 MET hours/week) each week compared to those who did not; 15% vs 33%, respectively. Similarly, in the comparator group, around 4% of the people who exercised that amount died, compared to 8% who did not.

However, participants < 75 years with previous stroke and who walked for 3-4 hours each week experienced the maximum benefit and reduced their mortality risk by 80%. The benefit in people over 75 years of age who exercised for this duration was reduced, but they were still 32% less likely to die.

In this group, 11% of those who exercised at least the minimum amount died, compared to 29% who did not.

This study suggests even a minimum amount of physical activity may reduce the risk of mortality in patients who have suffered a stroke, especially the younger stroke survivors as they may experience the maximum health benefits from walking for just 30 minutes in a day and 6-7 hours in a week. Any activity is better than no activity. Exercise regime must be tailored to the patient keeping in mind the disabilities that the patient might have.

Exercises for the Body and yoga for the mind is ideal for Stroke 

(Source: Medscape August 12, 2021; Joundi RA, et al. Association between physical activity and mortality among community-dwelling stroke survivors. Neurology. 2021 Aug 11, doi: 10.1212/WNL.0000000000012535)

Dr A.V. Srinivasan,

Emeritus Prof., The Tamil Nadu Dr. M.G.R. Medical University; Former President, Indian Academy Of Neurology