Optimism Linked to Lower CVD and Mortality Risk

A meta-analysis and systematic review suggested that optimism is associated with a lower risk of events of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and all-cause mortality. The analysis included 15 studies of 229 391 participants, in which 10 studies reported data on CVD events (including CVD mortality, nonfatal myocardial infarction, stroke, and/or new-onset angina) and 9 studies reported data on all-cause mortality. The mean follow-up period was 13.8 years (range, 2-40 years). On pooled analysis, optimism was significantly associated with a lower risk of CVD events and of all-cause mortality (relative risk, 0.65 and 0.86, respectively), with high and moderate heterogeneity (I² = 87.4% and 73.2%, respectively). Subgroup analyses by methods for assessment, follow-up duration, sex, and adjustment for depression and other potential confounders yielded similar results. Optimism has long been considered as a positive attribute for living. Accumulating data suggest that mechanisms may be a direct association of optimism vs pessimism with lifestyles and physiologic functioning. Source: https://jamanetwork.com/