Can vigorous physical activity mitigate the effect of systemic inflammation on cognitive performance? Results from a large older community dwelling population in The Netherlands.

ABSTRACT: BackgroundElevated systemic inflammation is associated with poorer cognitive function, while vigorous physical activity enhances cognition.ObjectiveThis study examines whether physical activity moderates the relationship between systemic inflammation and cognitive performance.MethodsWe analyzed 24,661 adults (50+) from the Dutch Lifelines cohort across two waves. Cognitive performance was assessed via a validated composite score from the Cogstate Brief Battery, with higher scores indicating lower cognitive performance. Leukocyte count (3-11 × 10⁹ cells/liter) served as a systemic inflammation biomarker, categorized as low (<6.5 × 10⁹ cells/liter) or high (≥6.5 × 10⁹ cells/liter). We used the Short Questionnaire to Assess Health-Enhancing Physical Activity t

SUBMITTER: Fink A 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12647380 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature