Allostatic Load and Breast Cancer: a Systematic Review of the Literature

Purpose of the Review: This systematic literature review aims to synthesize the existing literature on allostatic load and breast cancer. Recent Findings: Eight articles met the study inclusion criteria. Study results suggest high allostatic load is associated with poorly differentiated tumors and Black race among women with a history of breast cancer. Additionally, psychosocial support and exercise appear to be avenues to reduce allostatic load. Unfortunately, the relationship between allostatic load and tumor size, hormone receptor status, and patient-reported outcomes, i.e., health-related quality of life, are unclear and warrant further investigation. Summary: Allostatic load is emerging as an essential biological correlate of stress among patients with breast cancer. Future studies should further delineate its role across the breast cancer continuum from oncogenesis through survivorship.