Social Perception of Status and Heart Health Risks Differ Between Women and Men

Recent research indicates that women who perceive themselves as occupying a lower social status are at a higher risk of developing early signs of heart stress, which could lead to future cardiovascular disease. This study, led by scientists from McGill and Concordia universities, involved over 400 adults aged 35 to 83, all without diagnosed heart conditions. Participants rated their social standing on a 10-rung ladder, and cardiac MRI scans assessed early indicators of heart inflammation and tissue changes.

The findings revealed a significant correlation among women: those who viewed themselves as lower in social hierarchy exhibited increased signs of inflammation and early scarring in their heart tissues. Interestingly, men with similar social rankings did not show these early markers, suggesting a sex-specific effect.

Experts theorize that this difference may be due to women's subjective social perception better reflecting their real-life social experiences, such as earnings disparities and social pressures, which objective socioeconomic data might not fully capture. Additionally, psychological impacts like perceived limited opportunities for upward mobility and associated stress may contribute to these biological changes.

Since stress is a leading risk factor for heart disease in women under 65, these subtle tissue alterations could serve as early warning signals for future cardiovascular issues. The research team plans to follow the participants over time to determine if these early markers predict actual heart disease.

Lead author Dr. Judy Luu stressed the importance of considering mental wellness and social factors in routine cardiac care. The study underscores the need to address the nuanced ways social perceptions influence health, especially among women, and advocates for broader discussions about social circumstances and stress in medical settings.

Published in Biopsychosocial Science and Medicine, this research highlights the critical role of subjective social status in heart health and calls for tailored approaches to cardiac risk assessment based on sex-specific vulnerabilities. The findings encourage a holistic view of health that includes mental and social well-being as integral components of cardiovascular health.

For more information, see the original study by Yolanda Sánchez-Carro et al., available via DOI: 10.1097/PSY.0000000000001411.

[Source: medicalxpress.com]