Physical activity and digital health in chronic inflammatory diseases: Strategies for cardiovascular prevention and improved health outcomes

Background. Chronic inflammatory diseases are increasingly recognized as important contributors to cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. Persistent systemic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, and accelerated atherosclerosis contribute to cardiovascular complications in autoimmune and chronic inflammatory disorders. Aim. The aim of this review was to summarize current evidence regarding cardiovascular risk in selected chronic inflammatory diseases and to evaluate the role of physical activity as a non-pharmacological strategy influencing inflammatory and cardiovascular mechanisms. An additional aim was to explore how digital health technologies, including telemedicine and wearable devices, may support monitoring of physical activity and cardiovascular risk in these populations. Materials and methods. A structured narrative literature review was conducted using PubMed, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases. Original studies, systematic reviews, meta-analyses, and clinical recommendations related to cardiovascular complications and exercise interventions were analyzed. Results. The reviewed studies demonstrated a strong association between chronic inflammation, endothelial dysfunction, oxidative stress, and increased cardiovascular risk. Regular moderate-intensity physical activity was associated with reduced inflammatory burden and improved endothelial function. Emerging digital health tools, including wearable activity trackers and telemedicine platforms, showed potential to support remote monitoring of disease activity and exercise engagement, although their impact on hard cardiovascular outcomes remains insufficiently established. Exercise tolerance differed depending on disease severity and patient condition, particularly in long COVID patients. Conclusions. Physical activity may support long-term management of chronic inflammatory diseases and contribute to cardiovascular risk reduction. Further studies are required to establish disease-specific exercise recommendations, and digital health solutions may facilitate their individualized, remote implementation.