Physical inactivity poses a greater risk of heart disease in women over 30 than obesity, high blood pressure or smoking, according to new research.

A study published this week in the British Journal of Sports by researchers from the University of Queensland found found that inactivity remained the greatest population risk factor for heart disease among women all the way into their late 80s.

Although smoking was the most serious risk factor for women aged 22 to 27, data showed that these risks drop off as women reached 30, with physical inactivity becoming the most prominent cause of heart problems.

The developed world is facing an inactivity crisis, with Britain at particular risk as highlighted in a hard-hitting recent report from ukactive.

The Australian study of 32,000 females was one of the first to to look specifically at the impact of physical inactivity on women and follows US research on how varying gender attitudes impact exercise levels.

The study postulated that the lives of 2,000 women could be saved every year in Australia alone if all females aged 30 to 90 carried out the recommended weekly activity levels of 150 minutes of moderate exercise.

“We already know physical inactivity is a major risk factor for heart disease. Interestingly, this study shows its dominant influence on heart disease amongst women, and suggests a greater need to promote regular physical activity amongst this group,” said Thembi Nkala, senior cardiac nurse at the British Heart Foundation.

“It’s important to remember that heart disease is linked to other factors such as smoking, obesity, high blood pressure and high cholesterol. It’s essential to manage these too, as the more risk factors you have, the greater your chance of heart disease.”