Cellular senescence
Aging cells release inflammatory molecules (SASP)
Inflammation
and Aging
Understanding inflammaging
for a healthier tomorrow.
As we age, low-grade, chronic inflammation — called inflammaging — becomes more common. It can influence immune function, increase the risk of many age-related diseases, and affect overall health and quality of life.
Explore the science →What is inflammaging?
Inflammaging refers to a persistent, low-grade increase in inflammatory signals that develops with age, even in the absence of acute infection. It reflects a complex interplay between the immune system, metabolic changes, cellular senescence, and the environment.
Learn more about inflammation →
Aging and the immune system
With age, the immune system undergoes multiple changes, including a reduced ability to respond to new threats, a decline in immune regulation, and a tendency toward increased production of inflammatory molecules. This shift contributes to a state of chronic, low-grade inflammation.
YOUNGER ADULT
Balanced immune response
Effective defense
Controlled inflammation
AGING
OLDER ADULT
Increased inflammatory signals
Reduced immune regulation
Higher risk of chronic diseases
Key mechanisms
Several interconnected processes contribute to inflammaging.
Changes in immune cells
Altered function of innate and adaptive immune cells
Chronic infections
Persistent viruses (e.g., CMV) can drive and perpetuate inflammation
Metabolic changes
Altered metabolism and adipose tissue contribute to inflammatory signals
Environmental factors
Diet, sedentary lifestyle, pollution and stress can promote inflammation
Inflammatory markers increase with age
Several inflammatory molecules tend to be higher in older adults, even in the absence of infection, reflecting a state of chronic low-grade inflammation.
Conceptual illustration—not measured study data. Curves show a possible age-related trend; individual marker levels vary widely.
Health impacts of chronic inflammation
Inflammaging is associated with an increased risk of many age-related conditions, including cardiovascular disease, type 2 diabetes, neurodegenerative diseases, some cancers, and reduced physical function.
Cardiovascular disease
Type 2 diabetes
Neurodegenerative diseases
Cancer
Osteoarthritis and frailty
Evidence-based ways to reduce inflammaging
Lifestyle choices can help keep inflammation in check and support healthier aging.
Nutritious diet
Fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats (Mediterranean diet)
Regular physical activity
Reduces inflammatory markers and improves immune function
Healthy sleep
Supports immune regulation and reduces inflammation
Stress management
Mindfulness, relaxation techniques and social connections
Avoid tobacco and limit alcohol
Both can increase inflammation and accelerate biological aging
“Inflammaging is not an inevitable part of aging.
— ImmuneForward
A healthier future is possible through a better understanding of the mechanisms and by making informed lifestyle choices.
Science today.
Healthier tomorrows.
Discover more about how inflammation shapes immune aging — and what you can do to support a healthier, longer life.
Explore related topics →Selected sources and references
- Franceschi et al., 2018 — Inflammaging: a new immune-metabolic viewpoint for age-related diseases
- Furman et al., 2019 — Chronic inflammation in the etiology of disease across the life span
- Nikolich-Žugich, 2018 — The twilight of immunity: emerging concepts in aging of the immune system
Artwork illustrates the main mechanisms schematically; molecular sizes, colors and distances are not literal.