Overview
- Researchers measured epigenetic aging using saliva DNA from 2,345 Indiana participants aged 18 to 103.
- Greater exposure to hasslers correlated with higher inflammation, more chronic conditions, and worse mental health, without proving cause and effect.
- Women, people in poorer health, daily smokers, and those with adverse childhood experiences were more likely to report hasslers.
- Stronger associations appeared in hard-to-avoid ties such as family members, coworkers, and roommates, while spouse hasslers showed no significant link.
- Authors advised boundary setting, limited contact, therapy, and building supportive relationships, noting regional sampling, self-report, and cross-sectional limits.