Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
Or call 0345 90 80 161
20 November 2017 09:38
Dog ownership could improve the health of 1.1 million Brits
Owning a dog could be the key to reducing the risk of heart attacks and other potentially terminal diseases, according to a major new study.
Scientists in Sweden have analysed the data of 3.4 million patients over an 11-year period and identified that the risk of death from cardiovascular disease reduces by 36% if people who live alone get a canine companion.
'Neutralising the effects of loneliness'
Studying patients aged between 40 and 80, the researchers have found that people who live alone benefit disproportionately from having a dog around.
Although the benefits decrease for those who live with other people, pet ownership still offers a significantly lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease in households with multiple occupants.
Tove Fall, senior author of the study and professor of epidemiology at Uppsala University, says owning a dog neutralises the effects of living alone.
However, the professor is unable to say why the canines positively impact on health.
"These kind of epidemiological studies look for associations in large populations but do not provide answers on whether and how dogs could protect from cardiovascular disease," she said.
"There might also be differences between owners and non-owners before buying a dog, which could have influenced our results, such as those people choosing to get a dog tending to be more active and of better health."
The loneliness epidemic
In October, Helen Stokes-Lampard, leader of Britain's GPs, issued a warning that loneliness could be as bad for health as chronic illness.
She says there are an estimated 1.1 million lonely Brits, and that the risks associated with loneliness make it as harmful to one's health as diabetes.
Anyone who has suffered from a heart condition can still enjoy holidays and trips abroad by taking out medical travel insurance.
07 June 2019
Get hitched without a hitch! Here are our top tips on how to choose your perfect wedding location abroad, covering everything from food to legalities.
[more...]
03 June 2019
Want to get into surfing but not sure where to go? Here's where you should be heading to get the best beginner waves around the world.
Heading to the showpiece event of women's football in France this summer? Here's everything you need to know about England's venues for France 2019.
Get more out of your smartphone when you go travelling by downloading these travel apps and make your trip easier at the touch of a button.
24 May 2019
Heading to the football in Baku but don't know what else to do? Explore the hip and trendy crossroad of Europe and the Middle East and experience the fast-growing phenomenon, Azerbaijan.
Two of London's top football teams head east in search of silverware on May 29. If you're heading to Baku for the final, here's our guide on what you need to know before you go...
17 May 2019
There's more to Monaco than the Grand Prix. Discover the magic of the Mediterranean principality with our guide to what you must see in Monaco.
15 May 2019
Are you heading to one of Europe's best music festivals this summer? Then make sure you read our top ten tips before you leave...
What makes the Monaco Grand Prix so special? From a royal guestlist to a challenging circuit, we take a look at why the Monte Carlo Formula 1 race is so prestigious...
Get inspired for a summer of music, travel and adventure with our guide to some of the best music festivals around Europe.
07 May 2019
Thinking of visiting Spain? There are some excellent reasons to explore the country this spring and summer, from football finals to eating snails - so don't miss out!
Want to learn a new language without the hassle of going to classes? Check out our guide to the best free apps on the market and get yourself holiday-ready in no time.