Is an optimistic mind associated with healthy arteries and better lung function?

Bakgrund:Optimistic persons are more likely to succeed at work, and in relationships, to have more favorable health behaviors and coping skills. The few studies made on the relation between positive mindsets (e.g., optimism, life-satisfaction) and physical health mostly concern cardiovascular disease showing lowered risk of cardiovascular disease even after adjustments for mental health and socioeconomic position.

This suggests that the findings cannot be explained by a reduced prevalence of anxiety and depression or by a more favorable socioeconomic position. Even though there are strong genetic components, studies have shown also social and environmental influences and that the level of optimism might be enhanced by the use of cognitive behavioral therapy promoting healthy behaviors, problem-solving capacity and stress-resilience. Optimism can thus be regarded as a new potential target for prevention.

Målsättning:

The overall aim of the present project is to examine the associations between positive mindsets and arterial anatomy, arterial function and lung function. Arbetsplan:

The data consists of a population-based study of middle-aged adults (SCAPIS-Malmö). The exposures used in the project consist of degree of optimism and life satisfaction, that both are measured through questionnaire. The outcome measures in the project are arterial anatomy, arterial function and lung function.

Statistical analyzes will include linear and logistic regression models. Preliminary results performed on part of the study population show that individuals who are more optimistic have less arterial calcifications and better lung function compared to those with a more pessimistic view. Betydelse:

To the best of our knowledge, no previous study has connected positive mindsets to both arterial anatomy/function and lung function. Such studies are very important to better understand potential protective effects early in the disease process before clinical signs of disease have emerged and also reduce the risk of reverse causation. Moreover, using multiple outcomes (both arterial health and lung function) gives the opportunity to study similarities, but also differences in associations and mechanisms.

Investigating health protective and salutogenic factors is rather unusual in research, but such factors are of high and similar relevance for health care as are modifiable risk factors.