Body composition markers are associated with changes in inflammatory markers but not vice versa: A bi-directional longitudinal analysis in a population-based sample

Abstract

Background and aimGrowing body of evidence consistently link obesity and inflammation, Although the direction of the association is still unclear. We aimed to investigate longitudinal associations of body anthropometric, composition and fat distribution parameters with inflammatory markers and vice versa. Method and resultsWe used data from 2464 individuals of the SHIP-TREND cohort with a median follow-up of 7 years. Linear regression models adjusted for confounders were used to analyze associations of standardized body composition markers derived from classic anthropometry, bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) at baseline with changes in inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein (CRP), white blood cell (WBC), fibrinogen) and vice versa. Higher level of anthropometric markers at baseline were associated with an increase in the change of inflammatory markers. A 13.5 cm higher waist circumference (WC), 16.0 kg body weight and 7.76 % relative fat mass (FM) at baseline was associated with a change in CRP of 0.52 mg/L (95 % confidence interval [CI]: 0.29 to 0.74), 0.51 mg/L (95 % CI: 0.29; 0.74) and 0.58 mg/L (95 % CI: 0.34; 0.82) respectively. Absolute FM showed the strongest association with changes in serum fibrinogen levels (β for 8.69 kg higher FM: 0.07 g/L; 95 % CI: 0.05; 0.09). Baseline inflammatory markers were only associated with changes in hip circumference. ConclusionOur study indicates the importance of anthropometric, body composition and fat distribution markers as a risk factor for the development of inflammation. To prevent inflammatory-related complications, important is to take measures against the development of obesity.