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Psychological Scars and Physical Consequences: Linking PTSD to Cardiovascular Health.

Alexa Corker^1,2,3, Griffin Oh¹, Kristine Y DeLeon-Pennell^4,5,6

¹College of Graduate Studies, Medical University of South Carolina, 171 Ashley Ave, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA.

Journal of Cardiovascular Translational Research

|May 26, 2026

Summary

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) significantly elevates cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk, particularly in women. This review explores PTSD

Keywords:

Heart disease Inflammation PTSD Sex difference

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Area of Science:

Cardiology
Psychiatry
Public Health

Background:

Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is linked to a 30-45% increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and cardiac mortality.
This risk elevation persists after adjusting for depression, demographics, clinical factors, and psychosocial influences.
A significant sex disparity exists in PTSD prevalence, with women (approx. 10%) affected more than men (approx. 4%).

Purpose of the Study:

To review the impact of PTSD on cardiovascular physiology.
To emphasize sex differences in PTSD-related CVD risk.
To explore underlying mechanisms including inflammation and autonomic nervous system (ANS) dysfunction.

Main Methods:

Literature review of existing studies on PTSD and cardiovascular health.
Analysis of physiological mechanisms linking PTSD to CVD.
Examination of sex-based differences in prevalence and risk.
Summary of current and emerging therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

PTSD is an independent risk factor for CVD.
Inflammation and ANS dysregulation are key proposed mechanisms.
Sex differences in PTSD prevalence suggest differential biological or environmental impacts on CVD risk.

Conclusions:

Understanding the mechanisms linking PTSD and CVD is crucial for patient management.
Targeting inflammation and ANS dysfunction may mitigate CVD risk in PTSD patients.
Further research is needed to elucidate sex-specific pathways and optimize therapeutic interventions.