If you've never heard of the 'flamingo test' then you wouldn't be alone. A balance test, researchers have suggested that it is a way to gauge longevity and should be included in mid-life health checks.
So, as Dr Hilary appeared on ITV's Good Morning Britain today, Wednesday, June 22, it was the perfect opportunity for hosts Richard Madeley and Ranvir Singh to discuss the topic with the popular medic.
According to a study, people over 50 who are unable to stand on one leg for 10 seconds are at double the risk of dying in the next decade. The Mirror reported that the research stemmed from a global study team, including experts from Bristol Medical School, who tracked 1,702 participants, aged 51 to 75, from Brazil between 2009 and 2020.
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During the segment on the show, 66-year-old host Richard Madeley was up on his feet ready to try out the test. Dr Hilary explained: "Researchers have found that if you can pass this test, your risk of dying in the next seven years is much lower. If you can't pass this test, it's 84 per cent higher of death in the next seven years".
The study participants were asked to place the front of the lifted foot on the back of the opposite lower leg, keeping their arms by their sides and their gaze fixed straight ahead. As Richard replicated the move, he passed the test with flying colours - however, later struggled to stand up when he was challenged with doing the test with his eyes closed.
Some viewers weren't happy with the test or the message. Taking to social media, one viewer wrote: "Irresponsible broadcasting.. whilst Dr Hilary was fairly clear on this study, it came across as "if you don't pass this test, you're going to die in the next seven years. This will have scared many people."
Another person tweeted: "Here we go, Dr Doom is in the building. #GMB", while a third claimed: "Dr Death is back to scaremongering on @GMB #COVID #gmb." Another viewer added: "Dr Death is on now to cheer everyone up in these desperate times",
- Good Morning Britain airs weekdays at 6am on ITV and ITV Hub.
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