Obesity, chronic pain, and aging are prevalent global challenges with profound implications for health and well-being. Central to these processes are adrenal hormones, particularly cortisol and dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), along with its sulfated form (DHEAS). Cortisol, essential for stress adaptation, can have adverse effects on pain perception and aging when dysregulated, while DHEA/S possess properties that may mitigate these effects. This review explores the roles of cortisol and DHEA/S in the contexts of obesity, acute and chronic pain, aging, and age-related diseases. We examine the hormonal balance, specifically the cortisol-to-DHEA ratio (CDR), as a key marker of stress system functionality and its impact on pain sensitivity, neurodegeneration, and physical decline. Elevated CDR and decreased DHEA/S levels are associated with worsened outcomes, including increased frailty, immune dysfunction, and the progression of age-related conditions such as osteoporosis and Alzheimer’s disease. This review synthesizes the current literature to highlight the complex interplay between these hormones and their broader implications for health. It aims to provide insights into potential future therapies to improve pain management and promote healthy weight and aging. By investigating these mechanisms, this work contributes to a deeper understanding of the physiological intersections between pain, aging, and the endocrine system.

This study evaluates how chromosomal factors affect assisted reproduction techniques (ART) challenges among infertile couples, impacting their chances of conception. Chromosomal abnormalities, a leading cause of pregnancy failure and miscarriages, were investigated in a four-year retrospective study involving 100 patients with a history of infertility and unsuccessful IVF treatment. Among these cases, nine (9%) displayed aberrant chromosomal patterns, including balanced translocations (5%), sex chromosome deletions (3%), and one case of a small supernumerary marker chromosome (sSMC) (1%). The results of the present study highlight the importance of integrating comprehensive cytogenetic analysis as a routine diagnostic tool for individuals dealing with infertility, particularly before assisted reproduction techniques, to avert recurrent implantation failure and to enhance their chances of success.