Asian Heart Institute to research on benefits of walking for corporate employees

Asian Heart Institute (AHI), alongwith Stepathlon Lifestyle plans to conduct a research to understand the positive effects of walking and incidental activity on the risks of diabetes, heart disease, obesity and metabolic syndrome on corporate employees in India.

Known as Stepthlon, the research would be an initiative which will provide a solution that transforms the sedentary into active and the active into more active, irrespective of age, gender, designation, location and fitness levels through a pedometer-based, mass participation programme conducted over 100 consecutive days. The first edition of Stepathlon will commence from September 10, 2012.

Dr Ramakanta Panda, Vice Chairman and Managing Director, Asian Heart Institute said, “We are glad to associate with Stepathlon to bring out research which will track and study the positive effects of walking and physical activity on heart diseases and Type 2 diabetes. Stepathlon is a simple activity which will help employees to work towards an activity-filled life, thus enabling them to live healthy and reduce their risks of life-threatening diseases.”

As part of this research, Stepathlon participants from select corporations in India will be tested pre- and post-Stepathlon for changes in common risk factors for ailments such as heart-related diseases and Type 2 diabetes. These risk factors include cholesterol, triglycerides, weight, waist circumference and fasting blood glucose. The research aims to correlate the number of steps taken in a day with changes in these risk factors. Stepathlon’s Wellness Grant Programme will support programmes that build awareness or education in these areas. The Grant will also fund research and development programs for prevention and cure of diseases related to sedentary lifestyles.

EH News Bureau