Chronic inflammation in the etiology of disease across the life span

Nat Med. 2019 Dec;25(12):1822-1832. doi: 10.1038/s41591-019-0675-0. Epub 2019 Dec 5.

Abstract

Although intermittent increases in inflammation are critical for survival during physical injury and infection, recent research has revealed that certain social, environmental and lifestyle factors can promote systemic chronic inflammation (SCI) that can, in turn, lead to several diseases that collectively represent the leading causes of disability and mortality worldwide, such as cardiovascular disease, cancer, diabetes mellitus, chronic kidney disease, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease and autoimmune and neurodegenerative disorders. In the present Perspective we describe the multi-level mechanisms underlying SCI and several risk factors that promote this health-damaging phenotype, including infections, physical inactivity, poor diet, environmental and industrial toxicants and psychological stress. Furthermore, we suggest potential strategies for advancing the early diagnosis, prevention and treatment of SCI.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Autoimmune Diseases / etiology
  • Autoimmune Diseases / physiopathology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / etiology
  • Cardiovascular Diseases / physiopathology
  • Chronic Disease / epidemiology*
  • Diabetes Mellitus / etiology
  • Diabetes Mellitus / physiopathology
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / complications
  • Inflammation / epidemiology
  • Inflammation / physiopathology*
  • Life Style
  • Longevity / genetics*
  • Longevity / physiology
  • Neoplasms / etiology
  • Neoplasms / physiopathology
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / etiology
  • Neurodegenerative Diseases / physiopathology
  • Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease / etiology
  • Non-alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease / physiopathology
  • Renal Insufficiency, Chronic / etiology
  • Renal Insufficiency, Chronic / physiopathology
  • Risk Factors