Heart risk higher with pessimistic type D personality
24 September 2010
People with a ‘type D’ personality have a higher risk of future death from heart and blood vessel disease, Dutch researchers claim (Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes 2010; 3: 546-57).
Type D personalities, characterised by anxiety, irritation, pessimism and social inhibition, were found to be associated with an almost three times higher risk of adverse cardiovascular events, such as heart attack, and death. After analysing 49 studies involving over 6000 people, the researchers suggested this personality type could serve as a red flag for high-risk patients, who might benefit from psychological treatment and support.
“Type D patients tend to experience increased levels of anxiety, irritation and depressed mood across situations and time, while not sharing these emotions with others because of fear of disapproval”, the authors said. They are also thought to release more of the hormone cortisol in response to stress, and to lead unhealthier lives, the researchers added.
Last Reviewed: 24 September 2010
- 1. Denollet J, Schiffer AA, Spek V. A general propensity to psychological distress affects cardiovascular outcomes: evidence from research on the type D (distressed) personality profile. Circ Cardiovasc Qual Outcomes 2010; 3: 546-57.
