The Association between Maladaptive Coping Strategies and Cardiovascular Risk Factors: A 12-Year Evaluation from the Isfahan Cohort Study.

Background: Research suggests a possible link between maladaptive coping strategies and traditional cardiovascular risk factors, but conclusive evidence is lacking. Given the importance of early prevention in addressing cardiovascular disease, further investigation into this potential connection is essential. Therefore, this study aims to evaluate this relationship. Methods: The Isfahan Cohort Study, a long-term research endeavor (2001-2015), provided data for this study. Participants aged 35 or older were assessed for cardiovascular risk factors, including hypertension, dyslipidemia, overweight/obesity, and diabetes mellitus. Lifestyle factors such as smoking, physical activity, and diet were also considered. Coping strategies were evaluated using a self-administered stress management questionnaire. Statistical analyses, including Chi-square, ANOVA tests, and mixed-effect logistic regression, were conducted and stratified by age groups (<60 and ≥60). Results: This study involved 1388 participants. Results show maladaptive coping score correlated with higher risks of (OR 1.003; 95%CI: 1.000,1.005), dyslipidemia (1.003; 1.000,1.007), and overweight/obesity (1.004; 1.001,1.008). Analysis among participants under 60 years mirrored the overall trends, but no significant associations were found among those over 60 years. Conclusions: Based on the findings of this study, managing maladaptive coping strategies, particularly among younger adults, could potentially mitigate cardiovascular risk factors and thereby contribute to cardiovascular disease prevention.