Stalking and Its Link to Increased Heart Disease and Stroke Risk in Women

Recent research highlights a concerning connection between experiences of stalking and increased risks of cardiovascular disease among women. The study, published in Circulation, found that women who reported having been stalked or who obtained a restraining order were significantly more likely to develop heart attacks or strokes over a 20-year period. Specifically, women who experienced stalking were 41% more prone to cardiovascular issues, while those with restraining orders faced a 70% higher risk, even after accounting for other risk factors like lifestyle behaviors and health conditions.

The study analyzed data from over 66,000 women with an average starting age of 46 years in 2001, tracking their health outcomes through self-reports and medical records. It revealed that nearly 12% of participants had been stalked, and 6% had obtained restraining orders, with about 3% experiencing new-onset heart disease or stroke during the follow-up period.

Experts emphasize that stalking, often perceived as non-physical violence, can have profound health implications due to the chronic stress and psychological distress it causes. Dr. Rebecca B. Lawn from Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health states that violence against women should be recognized as a significant risk factor for heart health. She notes that women often make substantial life changes, such as moving, in response to stalking, which adds to the stress.

Further commentary from Dr. Harmony R. Reynolds underscores that various stressful life events, including intimate partner violence, are linked to higher cardiovascular risks. The biological impact of sustained stress on blood vessels and nervous system health may explain these findings, though more research is needed to understand the mechanisms.

The authors call for increased awareness and screening in healthcare to better recognize and address the health impacts of violence and stalking on women. They also stress the importance of social support in mitigating stress effects. Limitations of the study include a predominantly non-Hispanic white sample and reliance on self-reported data, which may not fully represent all populations.

Ultimately, this research underscores the importance of considering psychological trauma and violence as critical factors in women’s cardiovascular health, advocating for preventative strategies and supportive interventions.