Young Adults with PTSD may have a Higher Risk of Stroke in Middle Age
October 26, 2019
Dallas, TX – According to new research published in Stroke, a journal of the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association, Young adults who suffer from posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may be more likely to experience a transient ischemic attack (TIA) or major stroke event by middle age, raising the risk as much as other better-known risk factors.
This nationwide study of more than 1.1 million adults showed that PTSD may be a potent risk factor for developing stroke at a young age. (American Heart Association)
Heart failure in Methamphetamine Users: Could this be the next epidemic among Vets?
December 1, 2017
Anaheim, CA – Heart failure associated with methamphetamine (meth) use has risen dramatically in recent years among U.S. veterans, according to preliminary research presented at the American Heart Association’s Scientific Sessions 2017, a premier global exchange of the latest advances in cardiovascular science for researchers and clinicians.
Heart failure associated with methamphetamine use is on the rise among U.S. veterans. (American Heart Association)
American Heart Association says Parents of Children with serious Heart Defects may be at risk of PTSD
February 3, 2017
American Heart Association Rapid Access Journal Report
Dallas, TX – Parents of children with “critical” congenital heart defects – which require at least one cardiac surgery – are at high risk for mental health problems, particularly post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), anxiety and depression, according to research in Journal of the American Heart Association, the Open Access Journal of the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association.
Health professionals know that mental health issues in parents can lead to long-term cognitive, health and behavioral troubles in their children. Researchers reviewed published data from 10 countries.
Dr. Sarah Woolf-King, Ph.D., M.P.H. plays with two-year-old son Charlie in 2014. (Gayle Photography)
June is Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder Awareness Month
June 8, 2016
Nashville, TN – In recognition of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month, the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services wants to make sure that everyone understands the impact traumatic events can have.
In some cases, experiencing trauma can result in lifelong anxiety and stress and can even lead to suicide.
Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder may affect Blood Vessel Health in Veterans
March 24, 2016
Dallas, TX – Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) may decrease the ability of blood vessels to dilate, raising the risk of heart attack and stroke in veterans, according to new research in the Journal of the American Heart Association.
In the largest study to date on the impact of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) on blood vessel health, researchers found that blood vessels of veterans with PTSD were unable to expand normally in response to stimulus – they were less reactive — compared to veterans without PTSD. Less reactive blood vessels are linked to heart disease and other serious conditions.
Heart illustration with artery close up. (American Heart Association)
American Heart Association says Education, Psychological Support key for Defibrillator Patients
September 26, 2012
Each month, 10,000 people, including children, have a defibrillator implanted to restore normal heart rhythm and prevent sudden cardiac death.
Dallas, TX – Improved patient education and ongoing psychological support will help people cope with the psychological distress of having an implanted defibrillator, according to a scientific statement from the American Heart Association.
The statement, published in the American Heart Association journal Circulation, is a comprehensive review of the psychosocial and quality of life for people who receive an implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) to restore normal heart rhythm and prevent sudden cardiac death. It includes recommendations for improved patient care and identifies areas where more research is needed. [Read more]
