Comparison of serum high-sensitivity C-reactive protein and lipid profile levels in active and inactive elderly people during the first peak of COVID-19 pandemic

Evidence has shown that C-reactive protein (CRP) is not only an inflammatory biomarker but also an important risk factor associated with aging-related diseases including cardiovascular, metabolic, and kidney disorders. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate the comparison of serum high-sensitivity CRP (hs-CRP) and lipid profile levels in active and sedentary elderly people during the first peak of Covid-19 pandemic.

Seventy seven elderly men and women (mean age 61.43±6.07 years) based on body mass index (BMI) were divided into three groups including the healthy (BMI as 18.5-24.9 kg/m2), overweight (BMI as 25-29.9 kg/m2), and obese (BMI as more than 30 kg/m2) groups. Serum lipid profile and hs-CRP, and waist-hip ratio (WHR) were measured in the study groups. Data analysis was performed using one-way analysis of variance (ANOVA), chi-square (χ2) and regression coefficient at the significant level of p≤0.05.

The average levels of hs-CRP in obese older were significantly higher than normal weight (p=0.01). Also, serum hs-CRP and low density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) were significantly higher in elderly people with low physical activity level than same people with moderate physical activity level (p=0.0001 and p=0.006; respectively). A negative and significant correlation was also observed between the level of physical activity with WHR (p=0.01) and BMI (p=0.006).

Obese older adults who are inactive and with least physical activity in the condition of Covid-19 pandemic due to high hs-CRP and LDL-C, are more at risk of inflammation and weakened immune system.