Is it possible to utilize step counts in preventive care. That’s the question behind the recent study, “Step Count: The Next Vital Sign,” published on January 3, 2025, in the Journal of General Internal Medicine. The authors propose recognizing daily step counts as a vital sign, alongside blood pressure and heart rate, to unlock its potential as a simple yet powerful tool for improving health and longevity.

Why steps? Studies like the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) and the Women’s Heart Study reveal that walking as few as 6,000 steps daily can dramatically reduce the risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality. Benefits plateau around 8,000 steps for older adults, while younger individuals may see advantages up to 10,000 steps. In short, each step you take adds up to a longer, healthier life.

Step counts also empower personalized care. “By integrating step count into healthcare visits, we can foster meaningful discussions about lifestyle changes and help patients take control of their health,” explains Joseph G. Rogers, MD, Director of The Texas Heart Institute at Baylor College of Medicine. Portable and precise wearable devices make it easier than ever for individuals to track their steps and actively participate in their wellness journey.

The benefits go beyond longevity. Walking is an accessible, low-cost activity with no prescription needed, yet its potential to reduce chronic disease burdens is profound.

“This approach inspires a new era in preventive health,” says Dr. Stephanie Coulter, Medical Director of THI’s Women’s Center and champion of Houston’s #WALK30 campaign. “By championing step count as the next vital sign, we can encourage healthier lifestyles and paves the way for a brighter future.”

The time has come to step up—literally. Recognizing step count as a vital sign would not only help individuals live healthier lives but also strengthen the foundation of preventive care, creating a healthier, more vibrant community for all.

Watch KPRC health reporter Haley Hernandez’ report on Step Count.

Read the published paper here.