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IntroductionWith advances in technology and our interconnectedness enhanced, the evolution of human life has created a new type of stress, Cultural Stress (CS) and this type of stress has given way to a recognizable syndrome, Cultural Stress Anxiety Syndrome (CSAS), where isolation, anxiety, sedentary lifestyles and depression are the norm and may hasten senescence. ObjectiveThe purpose of this pilot study is to explore the effectiveness of an inclusive health method to treat CSAS. MethodsSix female patients were treated for 24 weeks with an inclusive health protocol (internal care, external care and emotional care) designed to reverse CSAS, rejuvenate cellular health and slow related degenerative cell aging processes. Clinical tests such as a comprehensive metabolic panel, blood pressure screenings, BMI/weight, stress test, as well as questionnaires, interviews and journaling were used to establish baseline measures, mid-point and final results. This included cohen perceived stress scale; patient health questionnaire PHQ-9; cultural stress questionnaire; dermatology self-reporting skin questionnaire; appearance questionnaire and video interviews; omnia photos; visia photos; clarity pro evaluations; blood pressure and body composition using an RJL system; skin biopsies and a global gene expression analysis using affymetrix microarrays. ResultsSubjects eliminated the symptoms of CSAS and gene expression examination showed positive results in down-regulation and up-regulation of the genes that influence senescence. Our findings show that inclusive treatment for CSAS can produce positive changes in total wellness and may reduce aging. In specific, we found that treatments that support the cellular water principle theory-which aims to fortify cells and connective tissue, Increase Intracellular Water (ICW) and boost cellular immunity-and address internal, external and emotional stress due to CS, may be useful to encourage maximal youth in aging patients and stave off age-related cellular degeneration. DiscussionAccordingly, lifestyle and behavioral management therapies that improve cell health and fortification, in concert with medical treatments, may have the most profound effects on CSAS and epigenetic aging factors.

The characteristics of modern society contribute to a condition we call Cultural Stress Anxiety Syndrome (CSAS), which is a response to the constant, pervasive, ever-increasing stress of modern living. Cultural Stress often leads to an isolated, sedentary lifestyle and a state of constant anxiety that triggers the body’s inflammation response, including the release of stress hormones linked to weight gain. Because Cultural Stress aggravates all other causes of obesity, it must be included in any effective weight management program. We present a review of the factors implicated in the obesity epidemic, as well as the implications of chronic stress on a variety of health issues. We then outline the evidence for Cultural Stress as a phenomenon that compounds other stressors, as well as the societal factors most responsible for Cultural Stress. We report on an initial pilot study that focuses on Cultural Stress-reduction as part of an inclusive health management program. We conclude that Cultural Stress is a factor in virtually all of the conditions that contribute to obesity: higher stress hormones, disrupted sleep, sedentary lifestyle, isolation, and reduced self-esteem. Supporting patients in managing Cultural Stress empowers them to effectively reduce their weight and maintain that weight loss over time.