Queen’s University researcher Louise de Lannoy (School of Kinesiology and Health Studies) has determined a short, five minute treadmill test can predict the risk of mortality. This risk is determined independent of other traditional risk factors including age, weight, blood pressure, smoking status, diabetes, cholesterol, and family history.
Overwhelming evidence has shown a maximal fitness test is a reliable way to determine the risk of mortality. This established test, performed on a treadmill where the maximum incline is steadily increased until the participant cannot continue, isn’t commonly used in clinical settings as it’s time-intensive and uncomfortable for the patient.
Ms. de Lannoy’s findings show a shorter treadmill test, called a submaximal fitness test, predicts the risk of premature death similarly to the maximal test. This is an important finding as it provides the clinician with options for assessing the health and risk of their patient.
Other members of the research team included Mei Sui (University of South Carolina), Carl J Lavie (John Ochsner Heart and Vascular Institute), Steven N Blair (University of South Carolina), and Robert Ross (Queen’s).
Read full story in the Queen’s Gazette.