Does Inflammation Contribute to Cancer Incidence and Mortality during Aging? A Conceptual Review

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Oncology
• Immunology

Background:

• Aging is characterized by chronic low-grade inflammation, a state known as 'inflammaging'.
• Inflammation is a known driver of cancer initiation and progression.
• The increase in cancer incidence and mortality with age may be linked to this chronic inflammation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review evidence supporting the hypothesis that age-associated inflammation contributes to cancer incidence and mortality.
• To explore epidemiological, therapeutic, and experimental data linking aging, inflammation, and cancer.

Main Methods:

• Review of epidemiological studies on inflammation biomarkers and cancer in older adults.
• Analysis of therapeutic strategies targeting inflammation for cancer prevention.
• Examination of experimental data from animal models on inflammation's role in aging and cancer.

Main Results:

• Epidemiological data show associations between systemic inflammation and cancer incidence/mortality in aging populations.
• Therapeutic targeting of inflammation shows potential for reducing cancer risk.
• Animal models demonstrate inflammation as a link between aging mechanisms and cancer development.

Conclusions:

• While evidence suggests a link between aging, inflammation, and cancer, specific inflammatory pathways remain unclear.
• Further research is crucial to elucidate these pathways and develop clinical applications for cancer prevention in aging individuals.