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Women who experience perinatal depression face significantly higher risks of developing cardiovascular disease over the subsequent two decades compared to those who do not, according to a recent study.

Perinatal depression, affecting approximately one in five women globally during pregnancy or postpartum, has been linked to increased incidences of high blood pressure, ischemic heart disease, and heart failure, according to researchers from the Karolinska Institutet in Stockholm, Sweden.

Led by Dr. Emma Bränn and Dr. Donghao Lu, the study published in the European Heart Journal marks the first comprehensive investigation into cardiovascular health following perinatal depression, drawing data from over 600,000 women. It underscores a notable association between perinatal depression and heightened cardiovascular risks, underscoring the urgency of integrated maternal healthcare.

"Our research group has already found that perinatal depression is linked to an increased risk of several other health issues, including premenstrual disorders, autoimmune disorders and suicidal behaviour, as well as premature death," explained Dr. Lu, emphasizing the study's findings.

As reported in the European Society of Cardiology website, the study leveraged Sweden's extensive Medical Birth Register, tracking outcomes from 2001 to 2020. It compared 55,539 women diagnosed with perinatal depression against 545,567 who did not report such diagnoses.

Results indicated that 6.4% of women with perinatal depression developed cardiovascular disease, contrasting with 3.7% among those without such history. Specifically, risks for high blood pressure, ischemic heart disease, and heart failure were elevated by approximately 50%, 37%, and 36%, respectively, among the affected group.

Dr. Bränn, senior author of the study, stressed the implications for identifying and mitigating cardiovascular risks early in women with perinatal depression. "Our findings may help identify people who are at a higher risk of cardiovascular disease so that steps can be taken to reduce this risk.

The study also adds to the established health risks of perinatal depression. We know that perinatal depression is both preventable and treatable, and for many people it's the first episode of depression they've ever experienced. Our findings provide more reason for ensuring maternal care is holistic, with equal attention on both physical and mental health," she stated.

While the precise mechanisms linking perinatal depression to cardiovascular disease remain unclear, the study highlights the urgent need for further research to inform preventive strategies.

Comparative analysis among sisters further supported these findings, revealing a 20% higher risk of cardiovascular disease in women with perinatal depression compared to their unaffected sisters. Genetic and familial factors may contribute, alongside broader impacts on immune function, oxidative stress, and lifestyle changes associated with depression.

In response to the study, Dr. Amani Meaidi from the Danish Cancer Society noted, "Considering the rise in perinatal depression and the lack of knowledge on cardiovascular disease in women, the study by Bränn and colleagues is much needed and welcomed."