ABSTRACT Aim(s) To examine the relationship between low socioeconomic status, stress, and chronic disease risk, and to explore leptin and adiponectin as upstream biomarkers of inflammation to inform evidence‐based nursing practice and policy. Design Integrative literature review guided by evidence‐based practice and lifecourse theory. Review Methods A structured review of peer‐reviewed literature was conducted to synthesize evidence on the social and biological mechanisms linking socioeconomic disadvantage to inflammation and chronic disease. Findings were interpreted using a lifecourse perspective to identify potential points for intervention at interpersonal and structural levels. Data Sources Literature searches were conducted in PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus for articles. Results The reviewed literature demonstrated a strong association between low socioeconomic status and increased exposure to stress, which contributes to higher levels of inflammation and elevated chronic disease risk. Leptin and adiponectin, along with their ratio, were identified as influential upstream biomarkers that affect downstream inflammatory processes and disease development. These biomarkers may help explain cumulative biological risk across the lifecourse. Conclusion Socioeconomic disadvantage contributes to chronic disease through stress‐related inflammatory pathways. Leptin and adiponectin show potential as upstream biomarkers for identifying risk earlier and guiding prevention strategies. Additional research is needed to clarify their roles within inflammatory pathways. Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care Nurses can apply evidence‐based practice to address both biological and social determinants of health. Early identification of inflammatory risk may support targeted clinical and policy‐level interventions aimed at reducing health disparities. Impact This review addressed socioeconomic disparities in chronic disease risk. Key findings highlight the role of stress‐related inflammation and upstream biomarkers. The research has implications for nursing practice, public health initiatives, and populations experiencing socioeconomic disadvantage. Reporting Method This review adhered to relevant guidelines from the Enhancing the Quality and Transparency of Health Research Network for reporting literature reviews. Patient or Public Contribution No Patient or Public Contribution. This review did not involve patients or members of the public. Trial and Protocol Registration Not applicable. No protocol registration or external funding was required.
Rausch et al. (Sun,) studied this question.