Researchers have uncovered significant gender-based differences in how exercise influences heart disease risk, with men requiring twice as much physical activity as women to achieve comparable protection. The study, published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Health, analyzed data from over 10,000 participants across multiple countries, revealing that while both genders benefit from regular exercise, the level of activity needed to reduce heart disease risk varies substantially. Dr. Nicole Saphier, a Fox News contributor and cardiovascular specialist, discussed these findings on ‘Fox & Friends Weekend’, noting that the results challenge conventional assumptions about gender-neutral fitness recommendations.
The study tracked exercise habits and heart disease incidence over a five-year period, finding that women who engaged in moderate activity levels had a significantly lower risk of cardiovascular events compared to men at similar activity levels. This discrepancy led researchers to investigate biological and physiological factors, such as hormonal differences and fat distribution, which may contribute to the varying protective effects of exercise. Dr. Saphier emphasized the importance of personalized fitness guidelines, urging healthcare providers to consider gender-specific factors when advising patients on exercise regimens.
Experts warn that these findings could lead to a reevaluation of current public health initiatives, which often use one-size-fits-all approaches to promoting physical activity. The study’s authors are calling for further research into how gender differences affect the efficacy of exercise in preventing heart disease, with potential implications for fitness recommendations in both clinical and community settings. As more data emerges, health organizations may need to develop targeted strategies to address the unique cardiovascular needs of men and women.