Allostatic load biomarkers of chronic stress and impact on health and cognition.
Level 5 - mechanism / opinion, no new human data
Narrative review of theoretical and empirical literature without systematic search methodology.
PubMed 19822172 · doi:10.1016/j.neubiorev.2009.10.002
What was done
This paper reviews theoretical and empirical research on the allostatic load model, examining how cumulative, multi-system physiological dysregulation (spanning neuroendocrine, immune, metabolic, and cardiovascular systems) relates to chronic stress and downstream physical and mental health outcomes.
What was found
The abstract reports no quantitative values or statistical metrics. It states qualitatively that composite allostatic load indices provide enhanced prediction of morbidity and mortality compared with conventional biomedical detection measures, and highlights associated risk and protective factors.
Why it matters
It outlines how multi-system biological monitoring captures cumulative stress-related wear and tear to improve risk stratification for chronic disease and cognitive decline.
Limits
The abstract outlines a broad narrative review without systematic search protocols, quality appraisal of included studies, or quantitative meta-analytic estimates. Specific sample sizes, effect magnitudes, and biomarker thresholds are not detailed.
Cited by
- supports There is a large body of data supporting the fact that chronic stress causes physical harm to the body.