Association between change in heart rate over years and life span (PMC version)

Researchers compared resting heart-rate readings taken years apart with later death records from adults who had repeated health checks. They examined whether heart rate rose, fell, or stayed about the same. People whose resting heart rate increased tended to have a higher chance of dying sooner. This was an observational study, meaning it found a link but could not prove that the heart-rate change caused earlier death.

What this means for you: A rising resting heart rate may be worth discussing with a doctor, but it is not a reliable lifespan test or a reason to buy a health gadget. Illness, medicines, fitness, stress, and measurement conditions can all affect heart rate.