Role of Systemic Inflammation in Chronic Diseases and Cancer: Clinical Perspectives and Research Advances

Abstract

Systemic inflammation is a common thread weaving through the pathogenesis of diverse chronic conditions, ranging from cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders to malignancy. Characterized by the persistent activation of innate immune signaling pathways and the elevation of circulating pro-inflammatory cytokines, systemic inflammation acts as both a driver and a consequence of tissue damage. This manuscript reviews the physiological underpinnings of "meta-inflammation," the molecular crosstalk between inflammatory mediators and tumor biology, and the clinical utility of hematological markers like the Neutrophil-to-Lymphocyte Ratio (NLR). We discuss translational research advances that highlight inflammation as a therapeutic target, aiming to move toward precision-based anti-inflammatory interventions.