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Allostatic Load Index

Meaning

The Allostatic Load Index is a composite measure quantifying the cumulative physiological wear and tear on the body resulting from chronic stress and the persistent efforts to maintain stability, a process known as allostasis. This index aggregates multiple biomarkers across several organ systems, including the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, cardiovascular, metabolic, and immune systems. Elevated allostatic load is a clinical indicator of increased long-term risk for stress-related pathologies, reflecting the cost of chronic adaptation. It provides a more comprehensive view of systemic dysregulation than single-parameter stress measures.