Which of the following is a potential health issue for caregivers due to stress?

The increased risk of infectious diseases among caregivers due to stress is a significant concern and is supported by various studies. When caregivers experience prolonged stress, it can lead to a weakened immune system. Stress hormones, particularly cortisol, can suppress the immune response, making individuals more susceptible to infections. This is especially critical in caregiving environments where exposure to illness is often higher, as caregivers may be in close contact with patients who have infectious conditions.

In full consideration of the other options, while they may relate to stress outcomes in general, they do not directly highlight the specific impact of caregiver stress on the immune system and infectious disease susceptibility with the same urgency and scientific backing. Caregivers need to manage their stress effectively to maintain not just their mental health but also their physical health, particularly in preventing infections they could encounter in their caregiving roles.