Effects of Physical Activity–Containing Interventions on Blood-Derived Biomarkers and Non-Invasive Cardiovascular and Vascular Outcomes in Early Childhood: A Systematic Review of Randomised Controlled Trials

Background/Objectives: Early childhood is an important period for the development of health-related behaviours and cardiometabolic risk trajectories. However, evidence regarding the effects of structured physical activity interventions on cardiometabolic and vascular outcomes in young children remains limited. This systematic review examined randomised controlled trials of physical activity–containing interventions in children aged 3–8 years that reported blood-derived metabolic or inflammatory biomarkers or non-invasive cardiovascular and vascular outcomes.

Methods

Five databases were searched for randomised controlled trials published up to 2 October 2026. Eligible studies included children aged 3–8 years and evaluated interventions containing a structured physical activity component. Outcomes of interest included blood-derived metabolic or inflammatory biomarkers and non-invasive cardiovascular or vascular measures, such as blood pressure and pulse-wave velocity. Owing to substantial heterogeneity in intervention characteristics and outcome measures, findings were synthesised narratively.