A new study from a leading U.S. medical school introduces Daily Heart Rate Per Step (DHRPS), a simple metric aimed at helping people understand heart health. By dividing average daily heart rate by daily step count, DHRPS reflects cardiovascular efficiency and potential risk for related conditions. The research was published in a major cardiology journal.
As wearables become commonplace, DHRPS offers an intuitive way to combine two familiar metrics. Instead of looking at steps or heart rate alone, this metric highlights how efficiently the heart works at a given activity level. Researchers analyzed data from thousands of smartwatch users and linked it to medical records, finding that higher DHRPS values correlated with increased risk for conditions such as type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart failure, stroke, coronary artery disease, and heart attack.
Lead author Zhanlin Chen, a medical student, notes that DHRPS is a low-cost tool using data many people already collect, enabling more active participation in health with “a tiny bit of math.” Dr. Peter Aziz, a pediatric cardiologist, endorses the metric as a logical next step beyond traditional measures, explaining that it captures the heart’s workload relative to activity, not just steps or resting heart rate alone.
The study’s large sample size strengthens its credibility. Participants were grouped by DHRPS values, with the highest group showing the strongest links to disease risk. Importantly, DHRPS appeared to identify risk more effectively than step count or resting heart rate alone, suggesting it could become a useful standard in personal health monitoring.
In the Thai context, the concept of DHRPS aligns with the country’s growing use of wearables and digital health tools. Thailand faces rising non‑communicable diseases amid an aging population, and many urban residents already track fitness and health metrics with smart devices. Integrating DHRPS into daily routines could empower Thai communities to monitor cardiovascular efficiency in a practical, affordable way.
As Thailand weaves technology into its healthcare system, DHRPS may help tailor individual health strategies without heavy costs. Data-driven metrics like DHRPS offer a way to merge modern tools with everyday health decisions, reflecting Thailand’s approach to balancing innovation with traditional wellness practices.
Looking ahead, researchers hope to refine DHRPS further and explore broader diagnostic potential within healthcare settings. Thai healthcare providers could consider incorporating the metric into routine check-ups to encourage proactive responses to cardiovascular risk.
Overall, DHRPS presents a clear, evidence-based method for individuals seeking greater control over heart health. Thai readers can apply this concept using existing devices, perform the simple calculation, and consult a healthcare professional if the ratio appears elevated. Public health initiatives in Thailand promoting cardiovascular wellness could help mainstream this approach and support broader adoption.