It is known that life satisfaction or well beingcan increase the mental healthbut so far the influence of well-being on cardiovascular health it was less clear.
Now analysis of the medical records of more than 120,000 adults in the UK with an average age of 57 has found that people who are happy with their lives are significantly less likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke.
According to this new study, published in Journal of the American Heart Associationhappy people were also less likely to develop one coronary heart diseaseof suffering a heart attack, heart failure or stroke compared to those with lower levels of well-being.
The researchers suggest, therefore, that a holistic approach to lifewhich includes regular physical activities, social activities and/or stress management techniques, is an effective way to improve personal well-being.
The study
After examining questionnaires from over 120,000 participants in the Biobank of the United Kingdom, the research team assessed well-being in relation to satisfaction with family, friendships, health, finances and general happiness.
They analyzed the potential connection between well-being and the development of four major cardiovascular diseases: coronary heart disease, heart attack, heart failure And stroke. The study also examined the impact of well-being on lifestyle factors and inflammatory markers.
The data found that, compared to adults with a low sense of well-being, the overall risk of developing cardiovascular disease was between 10% and 21%, being lower for people with the highest well-being scores.
Compared to adults with a lower sense of well-being, people with the highest well-being scores had a 44% lower risk of coronary heart disease, a 45% lower risk of stroke, a 51% lower risk of heart failure, and a 45% lower risk of stroke. Risk of heart attack reduced by 56%.
These findings highlight the profound impact that emotional and psychological health can have on physical well-being, shedding light on intricate biological mechanisms that had not previously been fully appreciated.
Source: American Heart Association
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