Chronic inflammation is a key aspect of aging, leading to disruptions in cell and tissue function and contributing to age-related diseases. Factors such as senescent cells and mitochondrial dysfunction play a role in this inflammatory signaling. A recent study shows a correlation between chronic inflammation and declining physical function later in life, as measured by gait speed. High levels of inflammation markers in mid-life predict an average 8% decline in physical function over the next 20 years. Addressing chronic inflammation is crucial in aging biology, and interventions are needed to combat its effects.
The study titled “Associations of mid-to-late-life inflammation with late-life mobility and the influences of chronic comorbidities, race, and social determinants of health: The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities Study” highlights the impact of inflammation on mobility and frailty in older adults. High levels of interleukin-6, hsCRP, TNFα, and TNFα soluble receptors are linked to slow walking speed and frailty in older adults, underscoring the role of inflammation in age-related mobility decline. The study suggests that addressing inflammation earlier in mid-life could prevent mobility issues later in life. Monitoring and interventions for inflammation from mid-life onwards may be beneficial in maintaining physical function as individuals age.
