Gender-specific characteristics of individuals with depressive symptoms and coronary heart disease

Lynn V. Doering, Sharon McKinley, Barbara Riegel, Debra K. Moser, Hendrika Meischke, Michele M. Pelter, Kathleen Dracup

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

14 Scopus citations

Abstract

Objective: In individuals with depressive symptoms and coronary heart disease (CHD), little is known about gender-specific characteristics that may inform treatments and outcomes. This study sought to identify characteristics that distinguish men from women with both conditions. Methods: By cross-sectional design, 1951 adults with CHD and elevated depressive symptoms completed questionnaires to measure anxiety, hostility, perceived control, and knowledge, attitudes, and beliefs about CHD. Gender differences were evaluated by multivariable logistic regression. Results: Women were more likely to be single (odds ratio [OR] 3.61, P < .001), to be unemployed (OR 2.52, P < .001), to be poorly educated (OR 2.52, P < .001), to be anxious (OR 1.14, P < .01), and to perceive lower control over health (OR 1.34, P < .01) than men. Conclusion: Women with CHD and depressive symptoms have fewer resources, greater anxiety, and lower perceived control than men. In women, targeting modifiable factors, such as anxiety and perceived control, is warranted.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)e4
JournalHeart and Lung: Journal of Acute and Critical Care
Volume40
Issue number3
DOIs
StatePublished - 2011

Bibliographical note

Funding Information:
Supported by National Institutes of Health R01NR07952 .

Funding

Supported by National Institutes of Health R01NR07952 .

FundersFunder number
National Institutes of Health (NIH)R01NR07952

    ASJC Scopus subject areas

    • Pulmonary and Respiratory Medicine
    • Critical Care and Intensive Care Medicine
    • Cardiology and Cardiovascular Medicine

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