Walking & women's health

Among older women, walking poses threat of injury as compared to other forms of exercises.

A study conducted by the University of Arkansas has revealed that among older women, walking poses the greatest threat of injury as compared to other forms of non-equipment exercise.

The study was conducted using data from the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System (NEISS) which compiles data from over 100 emergency rooms across the US. The results will be published in summer 2005 issue of the "Journal of Women and Aging" and were also presented at the 7th World Conference on Injury Prevention and Safety Promotion in Austria.

The study found that the number of injuries had increased which was probably due to factors such as increased activity, more active people living longer and better healthcare. The greatest concern was injury due to falls, as the incidence of fractures is higher among women aged 65 and above.

According to Ches Jones, the lead author of the study, environmental hazards were the main cause of the increasing number of walking related falls in the women. "You encounter obstacles such as street curbs, rocks, holes and even animals" he said.