China woman sets pacemaker record at 107

BEIJING, Aug 24 (Reuters) A 107-year-old woman has become the oldest person in China to be fitted with a pacemaker, state media said today.

Zhai Xiuying, whose heart rate was only 20 beats per minute, had the operation on Saturday in Xian, home to the terracotta warriors and capital of the northwest province of Shaanxi.

Dr Song Qinggang, who performed the operation, said Zhai's heart rate had increased to 60 beats per minute.

''She was able to sit up for a chat with us yesterday,'' Song told the news agency.

The patient's daughter said a sense of humour, healthy appetite and exercise had contributed to her long life.

''She enjoys walking and taking care of the household chores,'' she was quoted as saying.

''Red is her favourite colour and she likes scarlet shirts and jackets.'' Red is considered a lucky colour in China.

REUTERS BDP BD1205