– A new study has found that owning a dog can reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease.
– The study analyzed data from over 3.4 million people in Sweden, aged between 40 and 80, over a 12-year period.
– The study found that dog owners had a lower risk of death due to cardiovascular disease compared to non-dog owners, especially those who lived alone.
– The reduction in risk was highest for individuals who lived alone, with a 33% lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease compared to non-dog owners who lived alone.
– Dog owners who lived with a partner or child had a 15% lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease compared to non-dog owners.
A new study has found that owning a dog can reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular disease. The study, conducted in Sweden, analyzed data from over 3.4 million people aged between 40 and 80 over a 12-year period. The researchers found that dog owners had a lower risk of death due to cardiovascular disease compared to non-dog owners. This reduction in risk was particularly significant for individuals who lived alone.
The study revealed that individuals who lived alone and owned a dog had a 33% lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease compared to those who lived alone but did not own a dog. This suggests that having a furry companion at home can provide significant health benefits for individuals who lack social support. Similarly, dog owners who lived with a partner or child had a 15% lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease compared to non-dog owners.
While the exact reasons for these health benefits are not fully understood, the researchers speculate that dog ownership helps to promote an active lifestyle, which in turn enhances cardiovascular health. Dog owners are more likely to engage in regular physical activity due to the need for dog walks and playtime. Additionally, dogs can provide emotional support and reduce feelings of loneliness and stress, both of which are known risk factors for cardiovascular disease.
This study adds to the growing body of evidence highlighting the positive impact of dog ownership on human health. Previous research has shown that owning a dog is associated with lower blood pressure, improved mental health, reduced risk of asthma in children, and lower incidence of allergies. Dogs are also known to provide social support and reduce feelings of isolation, particularly for older adults.
However, it’s important to note that the study was limited to individuals living in Sweden, and therefore, the findings may not be directly applicable to other populations. Additionally, the study relied on self-reported data, which may introduce some degree of bias. Further research is needed to explore the specific mechanisms through which dog ownership affects cardiovascular health, as well as to determine the generalizability of these findings to other countries.
Overall, this study suggests that owning a dog can have significant health benefits, particularly in terms of reducing the risk of death from cardiovascular disease. These findings provide further motivation for individuals, especially those who live alone, to consider getting a dog as a furry companion and promoter of a healthier lifestyle.