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Psychosocial risk factors in coronary heart disease: beyond type A behavior

Miguel Trigo1, Danilo Silva, Evangelista Rocha

  • 1Universidade Lusófona de Humanidades e Tecnologias - Departamento de Psicologia, Lisboa, Portugal. miguel.trigo@ulusofona.pt

Revista Portuguesa De Cardiologia : Orgao Oficial Da Sociedade Portuguesa De Cardiologia = Portuguese Journal of Cardiology : an Official Journal of the Portuguese Society of Cardiology
|May 3, 2005
PubMed

Insights

Psychosocial factors significantly impact coronary artery disease risk. Negative emotions like depression, personality traits, and socioeconomic status are recognized as key contributors to cardiovascular health.

Area of Science:

  • Psychocardiology
  • Cardiovascular Health
  • Behavioral Medicine

Background:

  • Psychosocial risk factors are increasingly recognized for their impact on coronary artery disease (CAD).
  • Traditional research focused on Type A behavior patterns, but newer trends explore a broader range of psychosocial influences.
  • Understanding these factors is crucial for a holistic approach to cardiovascular disease prevention and management.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To provide an overview of the role of psychosocial risk factors in coronary artery disease.
  • To synthesize current research on the relationship between psychological elements and heart health.
  • To explore the evolution of research from specific behavioral patterns to broader psychosocial influences.

Main Methods:

  • Systematic literature review across four major databases (EBSCO, Proquest Psychology, Proquest Health, PubMed).
  • Analysis of variables including Type A behavior, hostility, anger, depression, anxiety, and psychosocial status.
  • Inclusion of concepts related to Type D personality, time urgency, and coronary-prone behavior.

Main Results:

  • Research has moved beyond the Type A behavior pattern concept.
  • The notion of a single 'toxic' component has been replaced by a more comprehensive, holistic perspective.
  • Deleterious effects of negative emotions (especially depression), personality, and socioeconomic status on organ function and psychosocial performance are acknowledged.

Conclusions:

  • Psychocardiology research now embraces a broader understanding of risk factors for coronary artery disease.
  • Negative emotions, personality traits, and socioeconomic status are confirmed as significant contributors to cardiovascular health.
  • A holistic approach is essential for addressing the complex interplay between psychosocial factors and heart disease.
Abstract

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