The Association between Depression and Heart Attack: Examining Demographic and Behavioral Correlates in Tennessee
Manik Ahuja1, Achala Ghimire1, Kajol Dahal1
1College of Public Health, East Tennessee State University, Johnson City, TN, USA.
Chronic Stress (Thousand Oaks, Calif.)
|March 27, 2025
Summary
Depression significantly increases heart attack risk in Tennessee, with lack of exercise also a major factor. Integrated mental and physical health strategies are crucial for cardiovascular disease prevention.
Area of Science:
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
- Cardiology
Background:
- Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and depression are significant global health issues.
- A bidirectional relationship exists between depression and heart disease.
- This study focuses on the association between depression and heart attack in Tennessee.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine the association between depression and heart attack.
- To identify demographic and behavioral correlates of heart attack in Tennessee.
- To understand the interplay between mental health and cardiovascular events.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional analysis of 2022 Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance System (BRFSS) data for Tennessee.
- Logistic regression analysis to assess the association between depression and heart attack.
- Inclusion of variables such as exercise, smoking, race, gender, and age.
Main Results:
- Depression was significantly associated with higher odds of heart attack (AOR = 1.36).
- Lack of exercise in the past 30 days was also significantly associated with higher odds of heart attack (AOR = 1.74).
- Low income, smoking, race, and ethnicity were not significantly associated with heart attack in this study.
Conclusions:
- Reinforces the significant link between depression and heart attack.
- Highlights the complex interplay of demographic and behavioral factors in cardiovascular disease.
- Underscores the need for integrated mental health care and addressing social determinants of health for cardiovascular health.
Related Concept Videos
01:27Psychoneuroimmunology: Cardiovascular Disease
22
Psychoneuroimmunology (PNI) is a multidisciplinary field that examines how psychological factors, particularly stress, interact with the immune system and impact physical health. Research in PNI has shown that chronic or traumatic stress can disrupt both the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis and the sympathetic nervous system. These disruptions contribute to serious health conditions, including cardiovascular diseases.
A key area of focus in PNI is the relationship between stress and coronary...
A key area of focus in PNI is the relationship between stress and coronary...
22
01:27Depressive Disorders: Etiology
26
Depressive disorders result from a complex interplay of biological, psychological, and sociocultural factors, each contributing uniquely to the development and persistence of the condition. Understanding these factors provides critical insight into the multifaceted nature of depression.
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
Biological Factors in Depression
Biological predispositions significantly influence the risk of developing depressive disorders. Genetic studies highlight the role of variations in the serotonin transporter...
26
01:30Stress and Mental Health
65
Chronic stress profoundly affects mental health, significantly influencing mood, behavior, and overall quality of life. Research closely links chronic stress with mental health conditions such as depression, anxiety, and substance use disorders. Ongoing exposure to stress can lead to physiological and psychological changes, initiating a cycle of emotional distress and maladaptive coping mechanisms.
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
Individuals with depression often experience challenges in both their personal and professional...
65
01:18Depression: Overview
204
Depression is a prevalent mental illness marked by persistent sadness and lack of interest in previously enjoyable activities. It can take several forms, including major depression, persistent depressive disorder, and bipolar I and II disorders. Symptoms range from emotional changes like chronic worry to physical changes like sleep disturbances and suicidal thoughts. From a neurobiological perspective, depression is believed to be triggered by abnormalities in the brain's prefrontal cortex,...
204
01:27Panic Disorder
23
Panic disorder is an anxiety disorder characterized by recurrent and sudden minutes-long episodes of intense fear, known as panic attacks. These attacks may feel like heart attacks and often happen without warning or a specific cause. They can include symptoms such as rapid heart rate, shortness of breath, chest pain, trembling, sweating, dizziness, and a sense of helplessness. During a panic attack, individuals may feel as though they are experiencing a heart attack or are in a...
23
01:23Assessment of the Cardiovascular System I: Subjective Data
248
A thorough health history and physical assessment are essential for identifying cardiovascular disease (CVD) symptoms and distinguishing them from other health issues.
Initial Enquiry
Ask the patient about their primary concern and thoroughly explore all reported symptoms.
Medical History
Investigate past illnesses affecting the cardiovascular system, such as angina, anemia, rheumatic fever, congenital heart disease, stroke, thrombophlebitis, dysrhythmias, varicosities
Inquire about symptoms...
Initial Enquiry
Ask the patient about their primary concern and thoroughly explore all reported symptoms.
Medical History
Investigate past illnesses affecting the cardiovascular system, such as angina, anemia, rheumatic fever, congenital heart disease, stroke, thrombophlebitis, dysrhythmias, varicosities
Inquire about symptoms...
248