Evaluation of serum levels of cell adhesion molecules (ICAM-1) and vascular adhesion molecules (VCAM-1) following a resistance training program in middle-aged and elderly men with hypertension

Background and Aim: Cell adhesion molecules (ICAM-1) and vascular adhesion molecules (VCAM-1) play critical roles in endothelial function and cardiovascular diseases. Given the increasing use of resistance training among middle-aged and elderly individuals, it is essential to examine the effects of this type of exercise on the serum levels of these molecules. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of 12 weeks of resistance training on serum levels of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 in middle-aged and elderly men with hypertension. Methods: This quasi-experimental study involved 24 elderly men with hypertension who met the inclusion criteria. Participants were randomly assigned to either the resistance training group (12 participants) or the control group (12 participants). The resistance training group performed resistance exercises three times a week for 12 weeks. Blood samples were collected at baseline and at the end of the study to measure serum levels of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1. Results: After 12 weeks of resistance training, serum levels of ICAM-1 (P=0.003) and VCAM-1 (P=0.005) significantly decreased. Additionally, inter-group comparisons showed significant differences in mean changes for both ICAM-1 (P=0.001) and VCAM-1 (P=0.001). Conclusion: Long-term resistance training appears to be effective not only in improving systolic and diastolic blood pressure but also in reducing serum levels of ICAM-1 and VCAM-1 in middle-aged and elderly men with hypertension. Therefore, regular resistance training may serve as a potential non-pharmacological approach for reducing blood pressure and improving endothelial function in this population.