CORRELATION BETWEEN DEPRESSION AND CARDIOVASCULAR DISEASE IN WOMEN: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

This review explores the relationship between depression and cardiovascular disease (CVD) in women. Searches were conducted in PubMed, Cochrane, ClinicalTrials.gov, ICTRP, Embase, and CINAHL using the terms “Depression,” “Cardiovascular Diseases,” and “Women.” There were no restrictions on language or follow-up duration. Out of 1,332 articles, 33 were selected for full evaluation, and 20 studies were included, focusing on randomized clinical trials. The results revealed that women with CVD face a higher risk of cardiovascular mortality and frequently experience depressive symptoms, loss of interest, isolation, and financial stress. Conditions such as diabetes, hypertension, smoking, obesity, and congestive heart failure were associated with increased psychosocial stress. Low physical activity was linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression. Behavioral changes, such as improving diet, increasing physical activity, and adhering to medication, led to significant reductions in body mass index (BMI), anxiety, and depression. Therefore, the interaction between depression and CVD in women is influenced by factors such as smoking, diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and stress, all of which contribute to early mortality.