Danish researchers report that resting heart rate may predict longevity. A study of 2,800 men followed for 16 years reveals that those with a rapid pulse at rest die earlier, even if they are in good shape.
Men with resting heart rates of 80 beats a minute had a shorter life expectancy by four or five years compared to those with a resting rate of 65 beats a minute. Every 10-beat-per-minute increase in resting heart rate was linked to a 16 percent rise in mortality.
Usually heart rate of people who are physically active is lower than that of couch potatoes. So the scientists were surprised to discover that when they controlled for exercise and fitness level, the heart rate was still predictive.
