Happiness May Improve Heart Health

Happiness May Improve Heart Health

Smiles may add miles to heart health, according to a study published in the American Journal of Cardiology, which found that a positive outlook on life and overall optimism may protect against coronary artery disease (CAD).

Researchers at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore examined the correlation between positive well-being and CAD incidence among healthy individuals who were at increased risk of heart problems due to a family history of early-onset CAD. The study included 5,992 participants (age 25 to 74) who were followed over a 12-year period. The findings suggested that maintaining a positive outlook supported heart health among these high-risk individuals.

From baseline analysis to follow-up, 14% of participants experienced a CAD event—typically within 7 years of initial examination. Men were affected by CAD events at a greater rate than women (21.6% compared to 8.2%). These statistics then took into account the General Well-Being Schedule—a questionnaire that measures general positive well-being, completed by participants at baseline level. Results showed that for every 16-point jump in this score, a 33% reduction in the risk of CAD incident occurred.

The results of this study suggest that positive well-being and overall feelings of happiness and optimism may offer protective benefits to overall heart health, although the mechanisms of this relationship remain unclear.