For their study, which was published online Wednesday in The Lancet Public Health journal, the researchers analyzed data from 57 studies from 2014 to 2025 that were conducted in more than 10 countries, including the United States. Those studies analyzed the relationship between daily steps and health outcomes in adults.

The researchers found significant health improvements when people increased their average daily steps from 2,000 (1 mile) to between 5,000 and 7,000 steps (2.5 to 3.5 miles). When compared with those who walked 2,000 steps a day, they found those who walked 7,000 steps a day had: 

• A 47% reduction in all-cause mortality, as well as a 25% lower risk of cardiovascular disease incidence and a 47% reduction in cardiovascular death.
• A 38% lower risk for dementia and a 22% lower risk of depressive symptoms.
• A 28% lower risk for falls.
• A 14% lower risk for type 2 diabetes.
• A 6% lower risk of cancer incidence and a 37% lower risk of cancer mortality.

The researchers did not find major differences in health outcomes for those who walked 10,000 (5 miles) steps a day compared with those who walked 7,000 steps a day.