Heart Health
Could anger and depression raise the risk of afib?
Research we're watching
- Reviewed by Deepak L. Bhatt, M.D., M.P.H, Former Editor in Chief, Harvard Heart Letter
Psychological issues such as anger, anxiety, depression, and work stress may be associated with a greater likelihood of developing the heart rhythm disorder known as atrial fibrillation (afib), according to a review article published Sept. 1, 2022, in the International Journal of Cardiology.
Researchers examined 13 studies that involved a total of more than 5.3 million participants. They found that the two most common emotional disorders, depression and anxiety, were associated with a 25% and 10% higher risk of afib, respectively. Significant work stress was linked to a 18% greater risk of afib, and anger to a 15% increase in risk.
People with depression and anxiety tend to have higher blood levels of stress hormones and substances known as inflammatory biomarkers. Both may contribute to alterations in the heart's electrical activity and structure, which could contribute to afib, according to the study authors.
Image: © Marko Geber/Getty Images
About the Author
Julie Corliss, Executive Editor, Harvard Heart Letter
About the Reviewer
Deepak L. Bhatt, M.D., M.P.H, Former Editor in Chief, Harvard Heart Letter
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