Researchers have found that women diagnosed with depression are more likely to develop heart disease than men with depression. Hormones and inflammation are factors contributing to the development of cardiovascular disease. Better screening for depression is necessary for both genders. Women are at a significantly higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease after a depression diagnosis. The study published in JACC: Asia analyzed over 4 million patients between 2005 and 2022. Results indicate that women have a higher likelihood of depression leading to heart attacks, chest pain, stroke, heart failure, and other cardiovascular events compared to men.
Cardiologists may need to prioritize screening patients for depression to improve cardiovascular outcomes for both men and women. Cardiovascular disease, including heart attacks, stroke, heart failure, and atrial fibrillation, affects more than 60 million women in the United States. Women are twice as likely to experience depression than men. The study shows that depression diagnoses were linked to a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease in both men and women. Researchers suggest that healthcare providers focus on optimizing care for individuals with depression to improve outcomes.
Women’s risk of developing heart disease after a depression diagnosis is higher compared to men. While heart attacks are typically associated with men, the risk is equal for both genders. Women are more likely to ignore heart attack symptoms, which may result in delayed treatment. Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, surpassing breast, lung, and colon cancer combined. Women experience different heart attack symptoms such as chest tightness, shortness of breath, and fatigue. Women are also more likely to have depression, which may elevate their risk of heart disease.
Research highlights the connection between depression and heart disease in women, emphasizing the need for tailored treatment based on hormonal fluctuations and reproductive age. Women experience distinct risk factors such as inflammation, hormonal changes, and metabolic syndrome. Depression and anxiety can lead to chronic inflammation affecting cardiovascular health. Hormonal fluctuations, especially during menopause, impact mental health and cardiovascular function. Estrogen plays a crucial role in arterial relaxation and cholesterol production, protecting the heart.
Medical professionals should integrate depression screening into cardiology practices to address mental health concerns alongside physical health. The holistic approach to patient care emphasizes the importance of addressing mental health in conjunction with cardiovascular health. Mental health discussions should be encouraged between healthcare providers and patients to enhance overall well-being. Women experiencing hormonal fluctuations during menopause may be more vulnerable to anxiety and depression, increasing their risk of heart disease. Understanding the interplay between mental health and cardiovascular health is essential for comprehensive patient care.