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Mental health disorders and their impact on cardiovascular health disparities

Viola Vaccarino1,2, Eva Prescott3, Amit J Shah1,2

  • 1Department of Epidemiology, Rollins School of Public Health, Emory University, Atlanta, USA.

The Lancet Regional Health. Europe
|November 7, 2025
PubMed

Insights

People with mental health disorders face higher cardiovascular disease (CVD) risks due to health inequities. Addressing these disparities requires integrated care and increased research investment for better health outcomes.

Area of Science:

  • Public Health
  • Cardiology
  • Psychiatry

Background:

  • Mental health disorders are prevalent, leading to significant morbidity and reduced life expectancy.
  • Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk is elevated in individuals with mental health conditions, exacerbated by social determinants and healthcare access inequalities.
  • Existing disparities in CVD and healthcare quality disproportionately affect those with common mental health conditions.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To evaluate the current knowledge on cardiovascular health disparities in people with mental health disorders.
  • To propose recommendations for addressing these identified disparities.
  • To raise awareness regarding the high burden of CVD in populations with mental health conditions.

Main Methods:

  • Convened experts to review the state of knowledge on inequalities and disparities in cardiovascular health.
  • Synthesized information on common mental health conditions and their association with CVD.
  • Focused on identifying gaps and proposing actionable recommendations.

Main Results:

  • Significant disparities exist in cardiovascular health and healthcare quality for individuals with mental health disorders.
  • Inequalities in social determinants of health, healthcare access, and quality of care contribute to increased CVD risk.
  • Urgent need for increased investment, intervention, and research is highlighted.

Conclusions:

  • Effective management of comorbid mental health disorders and CVD necessitates an integrated, holistic clinical care approach.
  • Addressing shared risk factors and the complex interplay between physical and mental health is crucial.
  • Increased investment and targeted interventions are vital to reduce the burden of CVD in this vulnerable population.

Keywords:
Cardiovascular diseaseEpidemiologyHealth inequalitiesMental healthPsychiatric disordersPublic health

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