Mental Health and Heart Disease
Summary:
Emerging research shows a strong connection between mental health and heart disease, with depression and anxiety accelerating the onset of cardiovascular risk factors, leading to heart attacks or strokes. Two recent studies highlight the importance of early cardiovascular screenings for individuals with mental health issues.
Key Facts:
- Anxiety and depression can speed up the development of cardiovascular disease risk factors, bringing forward the onset by an average of six months.
- People with depression or anxiety have a roughly 35% increased risk of major cardiovascular events like heart attacks and strokes.
- Higher cumulative stress is linked to a 22% increased risk of atherosclerosis and a 20% increased risk of overall cardiovascular disease, regardless of traditional risk factors.
Source:
American Heart Association
The heart and mind are strongly connected, with depression, anxiety, and chronic stress all increasing the risk for heart and brain health complications, according to two preliminary studies to be presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2023.
Research Findings:
Depression and anxiety accelerate the rate of gain of cardiovascular risk factors: mechanism leading to increased risk of cardiac events (MDP274)
Researchers found that anxiety and depression sped the development of new cardiovascular disease risk factors. Individuals previously diagnosed with anxiety or depression developed a new risk factor on average six months earlier than those without these conditions, and had a 35% increased risk for major cardiovascular events. Genetic analysis supported the clinical findings and showed that a genetic predisposition to stress was linked to earlier cardiovascular risk factor development. The study emphasizes the importance of screening for cardiovascular risk factors among people with depression and anxiety.
Associations of cumulative perceived stress with cardiovascular risk factors and outcomes: findings from the Dallas Heart Study (MDP100)
Researchers explored the effects of cumulative stress on heart and brain health. They found strong associations between cumulative stress and the development of atherosclerosis and overall cardiovascular disease, even after adjustments for known risk factors. The findings also highlighted demographic disparities, indicating that stress affects diverse populations differently. The study suggests that stress influences poor lifestyle behaviors and directly impacts physical well-being, leading to reduced cardiovascular health.
Conclusion:
The studies demonstrate the significant impact of psychological health on cardiovascular risk and emphasize the need for early cardiovascular screenings for individuals with mental health issues. These findings contribute to a growing body of data that highlights the intricate relationship between mental health and heart and brain health, underscoring the importance of addressing psychological well-being in holistic approaches to healthcare.
Dr Random english full name, MD, Cure of Mind