Exercise Effects on Inflammatory Markers in Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A Network Meta-Analysis

Area of Science:

• Gerontology and Exercise Science
• Inflammation Research
• Public Health Interventions

Background:

• Age-related low-grade inflammation is a significant health concern in middle-aged and older adults.
• Chronic inflammation contributes to various age-related diseases and functional decline.
• Understanding the impact of different exercise modalities on inflammatory markers is crucial for preventative health strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and synthesize the anti-inflammatory effects of various exercise types in middle-aged and older adults.
• To compare the efficacy of different exercise interventions in modulating key inflammatory markers.
• To provide evidence-based recommendations for exercise prescription to combat age-related inflammation.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review and frequentist network meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials.
• Inclusion of healthy, community-dwelling middle-aged and older adults.
• Comprehensive literature search across ten databases up to September 1, 2025, with rigorous study selection and quality assessment.

Main Results:

• Fifty-five randomized controlled trials involving 3516 participants were analyzed.
• Resistance training demonstrated the most significant reduction in C-reactive protein levels.
• Aerobic training showed optimal improvements in interleukin-6 and tumor necrosis factor-alpha levels.

Conclusions:

• Customized structured exercise, particularly aerobic and resistance training, is effective in reducing low-grade inflammation associated with aging.
• These findings offer practical guidance for clinicians and policymakers aiming to enhance health outcomes in the aging population.
• Exercise interventions represent a viable strategy for mitigating age-related inflammatory processes and promoting healthy aging.