Couples coping with cardiovascular disease: A systematic review.

Area of Science:

• Health Psychology
• Family Studies
• Cardiology

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death globally.
• The impact of CVD on couples is under-researched, with a focus primarily on individual patients.
• Understanding couple coping mechanisms is crucial for comprehensive care.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review existing literature on how couples cope with one partner's CVD diagnosis.
• To identify gaps in current research and inform future studies, practitioners, and policymakers.
• To synthesize knowledge on dyadic coping strategies in the context of cardiovascular illness.

Main Methods:

• A systematic review of 25 peer-reviewed articles was conducted.
• Data extraction focused on theory integration, coping constructs, instruments, samples, analyses, and findings.
• Inclusion criteria ensured relevance to couple-based coping with CVD.

Main Results:

• Most reviewed studies successfully integrated theory and utilized valid coping instruments.
• Limitations were identified in sampling strategies and analysis techniques, impacting external validity.
• The review synthesized diverse findings on couple adaptation to CVD.

Conclusions:

• There is a need for healthcare models that focus on couples (dyads) rather than solely on individual patients.
• Integrated healthcare approaches are recommended for managing CVD within relationships.
• Longitudinal research is essential to understand the evolving nature of couple coping over time.