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Amelioration of inflammation in young men with cardiovascular risks participating pedometer-based walking programme
N O Omar1, R A Ahmad2, M S Mohd Shah3
1Universiti Sains Malaysia, School of Medical Sciences, Department of Physiology, Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia. suhanakk@usm.my.
Insights
A pedometer-based walking program significantly reduced inflammation markers like CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α in sedentary young Malaysian men. This intervention improved cardiovascular health by increasing daily steps and reducing inflammatory markers.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Health
- Exercise Physiology
- Inflammation Biomarkers
Background:
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a growing concern among young Malaysian men, linked to sedentary lifestyles.
- Inflammation is a key factor in the development of cardiovascular events.
- Lack of physical activity exacerbates CVD risk factors.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate the impact of a pedometer-based walking program on reducing inflammation in sedentary young men.
- To measure changes in C-Reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6), and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α).
Main Methods:
- 70 sedentary young men (20-40 years) with cardiovascular risk factors were recruited.
- Participants were randomized into a control group (CG) and a pedometer group (PG) aiming for 8,000 steps/day.
- Inflammatory markers, anthropometric variables, and lipids were measured at baseline, 6, and 12 weeks.
Main Results:
- The PG significantly increased daily step count (p<0.001) and improved anthropometric and lipid profiles (p<0.001).
- Significant reductions in CRP, IL-6, and TNF-α were observed in the PG (p<0.001).
- No significant changes were noted in the control group.
Conclusions:
- Pedometer-assisted walking programs are effective in reducing inflammation in young sedentary men.
- This intervention improves key health indicators related to cardiovascular disease risk.
- Increased physical activity, even at moderate levels, positively impacts inflammatory markers.
Introduction:
Inflammation plays a central role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular events. The lack of exercise among Malaysians and the increasing cardiovascular diseases among young men are of concern. The aim of this study was to evaluate the reducing of inflammation by measuring C-Reactive protein (CRP), interleukin-6 (IL-6) and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α).
Materials And Methods:
A total of 70 young men (20 - 40 years) who were sedentary, achieving less than 5,000 steps/day in casual walking with 2 or more cardiovascular risk factors were recruited in Institute of Vocational Skills for Youth (IKBN Hulu Langat). Subjects were randomly assigned to a control group (CG) (n=34; no change in walking) and pedometer group (PG) (n=36; minimum target: 8,000 steps/day). All parameter was measured at baseline, at 6 weeks and after 12 weeks.
Results:
At post intervention, the CG step counts were similar (4983 ± 366vs 5697 ± 407steps/day). The PG significant increased step count from 4996 ± 805 to 10,128 ±511 steps/day (p<0.001). The PG showed significant improvement in anthropometric variables and lipid (time and group effect p<0.001). After intervention, CRP, IL-6 and TNF- α were significantly reduced for time and group effect (p<0.001). However, no changes were seen in CG.
Conclusion:
The pedometer-based walking programme improved health status in terms of improving inflammation and arterial stiffness.
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