Younger women are generally thought to have a low risk of heart disease, but new research urges clinicians to revisit that assumption, especially for women who suffer from certain mental health conditions. A new study being presented at the American College of Cardiology’s Annual Scientific Session found that having anxiety or depression could accelerate the development of cardiovascular risk factors among young and middle-aged women.
The study draws new attention to the importance of cardiovascular screening and preventive care as rates of cardiovascular risk factors rise and heart attacks become more common in younger people. Anxiety and depression have also become more prevalent in recent years, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic.
The researchers reported that younger women with anxiety or depression were nearly twice as likely to develop high blood pressure, high cholesterol or diabetes over a 10-year period compared with women who did not have these mental health conditions, putting them nearly on par with men of the same age in terms of heart disease risk.
The article highlights a concerning correlation between mental health conditions and accelerated cardiovascular risk, particularly among young and middle-aged women. Research suggests that conditions such as depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) could significantly increase the likelihood of developing cardiovascular issues in this demographic.
Studies have shown that mental health conditions can lead to unhealthy lifestyle behaviors such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, poor diet, and physical inactivity, all of which contribute to cardiovascular risk factors like high blood pressure, obesity, and diabetes. Additionally, chronic stress and inflammation associated with mental health disorders may directly impact cardiovascular health.
This intersection between mental health and cardiovascular risk underscores the importance of comprehensive healthcare that addresses both physical and psychological well-being. It emphasizes the need for early intervention and holistic approaches to healthcare that consider mental health as a crucial component of overall wellness.
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Mental Health Conditions could Accelerate Cardiovascular Risk in Young and Middle-Aged Women https://t.co/07vCmiM1CF #rehabnearme 855-339-1112
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