Chronic stress: a critical risk factor for atherosclerosis

Abstract

Chronic stress refers to the non-specific systemic reaction that occurs when the body is stimulated by various internal and external negative factors over a long time. The physiological response to chronic stress exposure has long been recognized as a potent modulator in the occurrence of atherosclerosis. Furthermore, research has confirmed the correlation between atherosclerosis and cardiovascular events. Chronic stress is pervasive during negative life events and may lead to the formation of plaque. Several epidemiological studies have shown that chronic stress is an independent risk factor for the development of vascular disease and for increased morbidity and mortality in patients with pre-existing coronary artery disease. One possible mechanism for this process is that chronic stress causes endothelial injury, directly activating macrophages, promoting foam cell formation and generating the formation of atherosclerotic plaque. This mechanism involves numerous variables, including inflammation, signal pathways, lipid metabolism and endothelial function. The mechanism of chronic stress in atherosclerosis should be further investigated to provide a theoretical basis for efforts to eliminate the effect of chronic stress on the cardiocerebral vascular system.