Propuesta de un índice integral de carga alostática con biomarcadores secundarios derivados de los exámenes médicos ocupacionales

Introduction: The Allostatic Load Index (ALI), originally developed in 1997 by Seeman et al., provides a possible approach to measure the cumulative influence of psychosocial factors on health and well-being, using indicators of functioning of potentially affected systems. Currently there is no standard set of biomarkers to measure allostatic load in occupational health studies. Objectives : To suggest a comprehensive indicator of allostatic load that can be obtained through routine occupational medical examination. Material and Methods: An exploratory study was carried out in 55 workers from the third level of health care attention. Secondary biomarkers that are part of the protocol for occupational medical examinations were selected to measure allostatic load.  The relationship between allostatic load and risk factors related to cardiovascular health, vulnerability to stress and the presence of stress symptoms was evaluated. Results: High values of allostatic load correlated significantly with poor cardiovascular health and a greater presence of stress symptoms. Conclusions: The results suggest the usefulness of using secondary biomarkers to measure allostatic load in the context of the occupational medical examination