TitleThe Protective Role of Positive Well-Being in Cardiovascular Disease: Review of Current Evidence, Mechanisms, and Clinical Implications.
Publication TypeJournal Article
Year of Publication2016
AuthorsSin, NL
JournalCurr Cardiol Rep
Volume18
Issue11
Pagination106
Date Published2016 Nov
ISSN1534-3170
KeywordsCardiovascular Diseases, Depression, Happiness, Health Behavior, Hostility, Humans, Mental Health, Personal Satisfaction, Protective Factors, Psychological Theory, Quality of Life, Risk Factors, Risk Reduction Behavior, Stress, Psychological
Abstract

<p>Positive psychological aspects of well-being-including positive emotions, optimism, and life satisfaction-are increasingly considered to have protective roles for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and longevity. A rapidly-growing body of literature has linked positive well-being with better cardiovascular health, lower incidence of CVD in healthy populations, and reduced risk of adverse outcomes in patients with existing CVD. This review first examines evidence on the associations of positive well-being with CVD and mortality, focusing on recent epidemiological research as well as inconsistent findings. Next, an overview is provided of putative biological, behavioral, and stress-buffering mechanisms that may underlie the relationship between positive well-being and cardiovascular health. Key areas for future inquiry are discussed, in addition to emerging developments that capitalize on technological and methodological advancements. Promising initial results from randomized controlled trials suggest that efforts to target positive well-being may serve as valuable components of broader CVD management programs.</p>

DOI10.1007/s11886-016-0792-z
Alternate JournalCurr Cardiol Rep
PubMed ID27612475
PubMed Central IDPMC5060088
Grant ListF32 AG048698 / AG / NIA NIH HHS / United States