JAMA Netw Open

Higher daily step counts may reduce depression risk in adults

December 17, 2024

Study design: This systematic review and meta-analysis synthesized data from 33 observational studies, including 27 cross-sectional and 6 longitudinal studies, involving 96,173 adults. The studies examined the relationship between objectively measured daily step counts and depression symptoms.

Results: The meta-analysis found a significant inverse association between daily step count and depressive symptoms. Specifically, each 1,000-step increase in daily walking was associated with a reduced rate of depressive symptoms. Participants who accumulated higher daily step counts (≥7,000 steps/day) had the greatest reduction in depressive symptoms compared with those with lower step counts.

Impact on clinical practice: The findings highlight the potential mental health benefits of encouraging patients to increase their daily step counts. However, further research is needed to confirm the associations and refine physical activity guidelines for mental health.

Source:

Bizzozero-Peroni B, et al. (2024, December 2). JAMA Netw Open. Daily Step Count and Depression in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/39680407/