Mental health disorders and their impact on cardiovascular health disparities

Abstract

Mental health disorders are highly prevalent and are associated with significant morbidity, disability, and reduced life expectancy. A key contributor to this disparity is the increased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD), which is partially driven by inequalities in social determinants of health, healthcare access, and quality of care. To address this challenge, The Lancet Regional Health—Europe convened experts to evaluate the current state of knowledge on inequalities and disparities in cardiovascular health among people with mental health disorders and propose recommendations to address these disparities. This Series paper aims to raise awareness of the disparities in CVD and health-care quality faced by individuals with common mental health conditions such as major depression, anxiety disorders, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and posttraumatic stress disorder. There is an urgent need for increased investment, intervention, and research to address the burden of CVD in these populations. Effective management of the comorbidity between mental health disorders and CVD requires an integrated and holistic approach to clinical care that addresses shared risk factors and the complex interactions between physical and mental health.