Women who are overweight or obese in mid-life are less likely to be healthy at age 70 or older, according to a study.

The research, published recently in the British Medical Journal, came as "no surprise" to British Heart Foundation (BHF) senior cardiac nurse June Davison, who said that being overweight is associated with an increased risk of many chronic heart conditions, including heart disease.

She said the results were especially "concerning" as over half of adults in the UK are overweight or obese.

"These findings emphasise the importance of maintaining a healthy weight throughout adulthood to increase the chances of living a long and healthy life."

She advised that the most effective way of losing or maintaining a healthy weight is to eat a healthy balanced diet and take regular exercise.

According to the BHF website, regardless of age, changing into your women's running wear and being active helps control your weight, reduce blood pressure and cholesterol and will provide long-term benefits for your heart and general health. ADNFCR-2569-ID-19388805-ADNFCR

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