By analyzing data from some 300,000 people, researchers have highlighted a correlation between the genetic risk of depression and that of heart disease in women.
- Women with an increased genetic risk of depression are more likely to develop cardiovascular disease, even without a diagnosis of depression and independent of classic risk factors such as being overweight or hypertension.
- Researchers point out that women are often underrepresented in cardiovascular studies, leading to underdiagnosis.
- They recommend regular cardiac check-ups for women, especially those with a history of depression, to improve their care and prevention.
Women with a high genetic risk of depression may also be more likely to develop cardiovascular disease. This is the conclusion of a new study led by researchers at the University of Queensland, Australia, and published in the journal Circulation: Genomics and Precision Medicine. This intriguing link, even in the absence of a depression diagnosis, highlights a striking gender disparity in heart health.
Neglected cardiovascular health in women
To carry out this study, the researchers used genetic predictors developed from international databases, notably those of 23andMe and UK BioBank. By analyzing the genetic profiles and medical records of more than 300,000 people, scientists have highlighted a correlation between the genetic risk of depression and that of cardiovascular diseases in women. An association that persists regardless of traditional risk factors such as overweight, smoking or hypertension. In contrast, no similar link was observed in men.
“Our study highlights a major problem: women are often underrepresented in research and clinical trials on heart disease”explain the researchers in a press release. Although these diseases are the leading cause of female mortality worldwide, diagnosis and treatment of women remain insufficient, leading to late treatment.
Note that if cardiovascular risks increase in women after menopause, this study shows a persistent vulnerability regardless of the hormonal stage. Hence the urgency of adopting a gendered and personalized approach in the prevention of cardiovascular diseases, according to the authors. “Women with a history of depression, even genetic, should benefit from regular heart checks, regardless of their age.”
Poor mental health and heart attacks
This is not the first study to highlight an association between depressive symptoms and heart problems. Research from 2020 showed that depressed people had a 14% increased risk of cardiovascular disease – particularly men this time. Another, more recent study, found that young adults who self-report depression or poor mental health have higher rates of heart attacks, strokes, and heart disease risk factors than those who don’t, with no significant difference. between men and women.
