Overview
In ageing, deleterious alterations in cardiovascular (CV) structure and function increase risks of ageing-related cardiovascular disease (CVD). Investigators found that these CV alterations were associated with circulating serum metabolites, suggesting a metabolic basis to CV ageing. Investigators hypothesize that modification of these metabolites by intervention, such as exercise, may retard CV alterations and reduce CVD in ageing.
Description
Participants from each stratum will be randomized to receive either an exercise program intervention or no exercise. At the start and end of study, participants will undergo cardiovascular imaging and metabolic profiling. Investigators will determine if exercise can reverse high-risk metabolic profiles and improve cardiovascular structure and function.
Without clear mechanisms to explain cardiovascular ageing nor interventions known to retard cardiovascular ageing, our approach will provide much needed translational evidence to incorporate targeted interventions aimed at reducing cardiovascular disease risk in older populations.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria:
- Age >=21 years old
- Outdoor ambulant
Exclusion Criteria:
- Wheelchair or bed-bound
- Dementia
- Residing in sheltered or nursing home
- Cancer
- Participation in ongoing clinical trials that involve interventional drugs or devices
- Aneurysms
- Acute infections (in the last six months)
- Uncontrolled thyrotoxicosis
- Neuromuscular, musculoskeletal or rheumatoid disorders that are exacerbated by exercise
- Uncontrolled asthma or chronic lung disease
- Restrictive lung disease