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Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and Cardiovascular Diseases: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Omar Anwar Saleh Al Nakhebi1, Raluka Albu-Kalinovic1, Oana Neda-Stepan1
1Doctoral School, "Victor Babes" University of Medicine and Pharmacy, 300041 Timisoara, Romania.
Insights
This study found a significant two-way link between cardiovascular disease (CVD) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Integrating trauma care into heart health and stress management into PTSD treatment is crucial.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Psychiatry
- Public Health
Background:
- Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is a significant mental health condition.
- Cardiovascular disease (CVD) remains a leading cause of mortality worldwide.
- The interplay between PTSD and CVD requires further investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To conduct a meta-analysis examining the bidirectional association between PTSD and CVD.
- To assess the risk of CVD incidence in individuals with PTSD.
- To determine the prevalence of PTSD in patients diagnosed with CVD.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search adhering to PRISMA guidelines.
- Inclusion of 18 studies for PTSD-to-CVD risk analysis.
- Inclusion of 11 studies for CVD-to-PTSD prevalence analysis.
Main Results:
- Confirmed a bidirectional and clinically significant relationship between PTSD and CVD.
- Evidence supports increased CVD incidence in individuals with PTSD.
- Significant prevalence of PTSD observed in patients with CVD.
Conclusions:
- The findings highlight a critical link between mental health and cardiovascular health.
- Integrating trauma-informed care into cardiovascular services is recommended.
- Incorporating stress management into psychiatric care for PTSD patients is essential to break the cycle.
Abstract:
Objective: This meta-analysis aimed to examine the bidirectional association between PTSD and cardiovascular disease (CVD) by evaluating the following: (1) the risk of increased CVD incidence in individuals with PTSD; and (2) the prevalence of PTSD in patients with cardiovascular disease. Methods: Using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines, a literature search was conducted of the PubMed/Medline, Scopus, and Web of Science databases without using a temporal publication range. For the PTSD-to-CVD direction, 18 studies were combined. For the CVD-to-PTSD direction, 11 studies that ascertained the incidence or prevalence of PTSD following a CVD event were combined. Results: The findings confirm the bidirectional and clinically significant relationship between CVD and PTSD. Conclusions: These data underscore the need to integrate trauma-informed approaches into cardiovascular care and stress management into psychiatric treatment to stop this pathological cycle.
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