Key result
Higher habitual physical activity is linked to ~31% lower risk of community-acquired infectious disease.
Why the study?
There was no systematic and quantitative evidence synthesis evaluating the association between regular physical activity and the strength of the immune system.
Does regular physical activity reduce the risk of community-acquired infectious disease and improve immune response in adults?
Population
Adults from the general population excluding elite athletes
Comparison
Higher level of habitual physical activity or physical activity interventions vs controls
Design
Systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials and prospective observational studies
Authors
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Supports recommending higher habitual activity to lower infection risk; extends evidence to mortality and immune parameters.
Meta-Analysis (n=557,487)
Does regular physical activity reduce the risk of community-acquired infectious disease and improve immune response in adults?
Effect estimate: HR 0.69 (95% CI 0.61-0.78)
Regular physical activity is associated with a significantly reduced risk of community-acquired infectious diseases and mortality, and enhances immune parameters and vaccination responses.
Chastin et al. (2021) conducted a meta-analysis in Community-acquired infectious disease (n=557,487). Habitual physical activity vs. Lower level of physical activity or controls was evaluated on Risk of community-acquired infectious disease (HR 0.69, 95% CI 0.61-0.78). Higher habitual physical activity was associated with a 31% reduced risk of community-acquired infectious disease (HR 0.69; 95% CI 0.61-0.78) and a 37% reduced risk of infectious disease mortality.
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