What's the link between inflammation and ageing?

As we get older, our bodies experience natural changes that affect how cells repair and respond to stress. One of the most important of these changes is inflammation. While short-term inflammation helps the body heal, long-term inflammation - known as chronic inflammation - is linked to faster ageing and an increased risk of disease.

This ongoing low-grade inflammation has even been given its own name: “inflammaging.”

What is inflammaging?

Inflammaging describes the chronic, low-level inflammation that develops as we age. It’s not caused by infection or injury but by long-term stress on the immune system.

Over time, the body’s ability to regulate inflammation declines, leading to higher levels of inflammatory markers in the blood. This persistent state can accelerate the ageing process and contribute to the development of age-related conditions such as:

• Type 2 diabetes

• Heart disease

• Alzheimer’s disease

• Osteoarthritis

• Certain cancers

Why does inflammation increase with age?

Several factors contribute to rising inflammation levels as we get older:

• Immune system changes: The immune system becomes less efficient, making it harder to control inflammation.

• Cell damage: Accumulated cellular damage triggers inflammatory responses.

• Lifestyle habits: Poor diet, inactivity, stress, smoking, and alcohol use all raise inflammation levels.

• Gut health: An imbalance in gut bacteria can increase inflammatory activity.

Even mild, persistent inflammation can gradually damage cells and tissues, affecting energy levels, cognitive function and recovery after illness or injury. For a closer look, see What Causes Inflammation in the Body?

The impact of chronic inflammation on ageing

Chronic inflammation doesn’t just affect one part of the body; it can influence nearly every system. Over time, this can:

• Reduce muscle mass and strength

• Impair memory and brain function

• Disrupt hormone balance

• Weaken the immune system

• Slow down healing and recovery

• Increase the risk of cardiovascular and metabolic diseases

Managing inflammation early is key to supporting long-term health and healthy ageing.

What is the link between inflammation and cancer?

There is a well-documented connection between inflammation and an increased risk of certain cancers, particularly those caused by infectious agents. For example, stomach cancer linked to Helicobacter pylori infection often involves chronic inflammation of the stomach lining.

Although the exact mechanisms are not fully understood, it’s believed that prolonged inflammation can:

• Create an environment that supports cancer cell growth

• Promote tumour development and spread

• Produce cytokines - molecules that stimulate blood vessel growth and provide tumours with oxygen and nutrients

What cancers are linked to inflammation?

Several types of cancer have been associated with long-term inflammation caused by infection, including:

• Colorectal cancer: Linked to inflammatory bowel diseases like Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis

• Nasopharyngeal cancer: Linked to Epstein–Barr virus

• Stomach (gastric) cancer: Linked to Helicobacter pylori infection

• Liver cancer: Linked to Hepatitis B and C

• Lung, anal, and liver cancer: Linked to HIV infection

• Cervical cancer: Linked to human papillomavirus (HPV)

• Bladder cancer: Linked to schistosomiasis (a parasitic infection)

While infection is one cause, other factors can also drive chronic inflammation - such as smoking, obesity and excessive UV exposure, which increases the risk of melanoma (skin cancer).

Understanding your cancer risk

If you’re concerned about your risk of developing certain cancers as you age, Bluecrest’s Male and Female Cancer Risk packages can provide valuable insights and reassurance.

These packages are tailored to your biological sex and designed for people over 40. They assess your risk of cancers linked to inflammation - such as stomach and cervical cancers - while also checking key indicators of overall health, including cholesterol and diabetes risk.

Available at over 350 venues across the UK, our packages include:

• Fast, accurate test results from accredited UK laboratories

• A detailed Results Report

• 12 months’ free access to a 24/7 GP helpline after your test

How to reduce inflammation as you age

You can help control inflammation through small, consistent lifestyle changes:

• Follow an anti-inflammatory diet: Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and omega-3-rich foods.

• Stay active: Regular physical activity reduces inflammatory markers.

• Maintain a healthy weight: Excess body fat can raise inflammation levels.

• Prioritise sleep: Poor sleep contributes to stress and inflammation.

• Manage stress: Techniques such as meditation or breathing exercises can lower stress-related inflammation.

• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol: Both can increase chronic inflammation.

Testing inflammation levels

A C-reactive protein (CRP) blood test measures inflammation in the body and helps assess your risk of inflammation-related diseases.

Tracking inflammation with a CRP test or as part of a full body health check gives valuable insights into how your body is ageing internally. Identifying raised inflammation early can help you make timely lifestyle changes or seek further medical advice.

FAQs

What is inflammaging?

Inflammaging refers to chronic, low-grade inflammation that develops naturally as we age. It’s linked to a higher risk of age-related diseases like diabetes, Alzheimer’s, and heart disease.

Can inflammation make you age faster?

Yes. Persistent inflammation damages cells and tissues, which accelerates visible and internal signs of ageing.

How can I tell if I have inflammation?

You may not always notice symptoms, but a C-reactive protein (CRP) blood test can measure inflammation levels accurately.

Does diet affect inflammation?

Yes. Diets high in processed foods and sugar can increase inflammation, while fruits, vegetables, nuts, and fish can help reduce it.

How can I manage inflammation naturally?

Regular exercise, balanced nutrition, good sleep, and stress management all help lower inflammation levels as you age.

Private health checks for complete peace of mind

Our private health checks are designed for people who want a clear picture of their wellbeing without the stress of waiting lists or invasive procedures.

Tests are carried out by trained specialists at over 350 venues across the UK and Ireland, giving you access to fast, professional health assessments near your home.

You can also add a CRP inflammation test or other individual tests to any full body health package. Simply book your preferred package and contact our team before your appointment.

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0800 652 2183 to speak to one of our team.