Allostatic load as a marker of cumulative biological risk: MacArthur studies of successful aging

摘要: Allostatic load (AL) has been proposed as a new conceptualization of cumulative biological burden exacted on the body through attempts to adapt life's demands. Using multisystem summary measure AL, we evaluated its capacity predict four categories health outcomes, 7 years after baseline survey 1,189 men and women age 70–79. Higher AL scores were associated with significantly increased risk for 7-year mortality well declines in cognitive physical functioning marginally incident cardiovascular disease events, independent standard socio-demographic characteristics status. The was based 10 parameters functioning, which are primary mediators cascade from perceived challenges downstream outcomes. Six components secondary reflecting primarily metabolic syndrome (syndrome X). better predictor decline than either X or mediator alone. findings support concept burden.