Does exposure to stressors predict changes in physiological dysregulation?

Abstract

Background : The allostatic load framework implies that cumulative exposure to stressors results in multi-system physiological dysregulation. Purpose : To investigate the effect of stress burden on subsequent changes (2000-2006) in physiological dysregulation. Methods : Data came from a population-based cohort study in Taiwan (n=521, aged 54+ in 2000, re-examined in 2006). Measures of stressful events and chronic strain were based on questions asked in 1996, 1999, and 2000. A measure of trauma was based on exposure to the 1999 earthquake. Dysregulation was based on 17 biomarkers (e.g., metabolic, inflammatory, neuroendocrine).