A new study shows that people with physically demanding jobs may be hurting their hearts. The study used ultrasound tests to measure the thickness of workers' carotid arteries, an indicator of heart disease. Those who exercised at least four times a week during leisure hours showed the least amount of artery thickening.
Recommendations Work out regularly.
People who attend the gym on a regular basis are less likely to experience exercise-related cardiovascular complications. Have a physical examination and an exercise stress test before beginning a vigorous routine. Additional Information American Heart Association Learn more about heart attacks. Researchers at the University of Southern California followed more than 400 utility workers for three years. They found that those with the most physically strenuous jobs also had the most plaque buildup in their arteries, while those with the least job activity had less chance of developing heart disease.