Diurnal cortisol patterns are associated with physical performance in the Caerphilly Prospective Study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Cross-sectional studies have suggested that elevated cortisol is associated with worse physical performance, a surrogate of ageing. We examined the relationship between repeat cortisol measures over 20 years and physical performance in later life.

Methods

Middle-aged men (45-59 years) were recruited between 1979 and 1983 (Phase 1) from the Caerphilly Prospective Study (CaPS) and re-examined 20 years later at 65-83 years of age (Phase 5). Participants included 750 and 898 subjects with either Phase 1 and/or Phase 5 data on exposure and outcomes. Outcome measures were walking speed and balance time and exposures included morning fasting serum cortisol (Phase 1) and four salivary samples on 2 consecutive days (Phase 5).

Results

Faster walking speed was associa

SUBMITTER: Gardner MP 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3235020 | biostudies-literature | 2011 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature