Key result
Hypothesized stress-induced arteriovenous shunting is linked to systemic inflammation and cardiovascular disease.
Proposes a speculative hypothesis that stress-induced opening of arteriovenous anastomoses contributes to chronic systemic inflammation and various age-related diseases.
This article presents a speculative pathophysiological hypothesis proposing a common mechanism underlying chronic systemic inflammation (CSI), cardiovascular diseases, metabolic syndrome, cancer, and several age related disorders. The author suggests that prolonged psychological and physical stress may induce episodic opening of large arteriovenous anastomoses, leading to abnormal arterial-to-venous blood shunting. According to the hypothesis, these recurrent blood leaks may disrupt systemic and pulmonary circulation, promote oxidative stress, impair tissue oxygenation, and contribute to chronic inflammatory activation. The proposed mechanism is further linked to endothelial dysfunction, atherosclerotic plaque formation, venous congestion, metabolic disturbances, and progressive multiorgan damage. The article also discusses the possible relationship between chronic systemic inflammation and carcinogenesis, emphasizing disease comorbidity as evidence of a shared underlying process. Existing international research on chronic inflammation and aging is reviewed to support the conceptual framework. Preventive strategies focused on stress reduction, circulation regulation, physical activity, and monitoring of vascular shunts are proposed. The article is intended to stimulate scientific discussion and future experimental investigation rather than provide established clinical conclusions.
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Vladimir Ermoshkin (2026) conducted a review in Chronic systemic inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer. Prolonged psychological and physical stress was evaluated. A speculative hypothesis proposes that prolonged stress induces abnormal arteriovenous blood shunting, contributing to chronic systemic inflammation, cardiovascular diseases, and cancer.
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