For well over 30 years, scientists have suspected that people with aggressive or “Type A” personalities are more vulnerable to serious heart problems, such as heart attacks, than are people who are more “laid back”. But until now, the scientists had little scientific evidence to explain why this might occur. With the release of the results of a new study, medical experts say that low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), the so-called “good” cholesterol, in Type A people may be responsible for the increased risk.
The study, directed by Dr. Joann Manson of Brigham and Woman’s Hospital in Boston revealed that the HDL levels in Type As were about 10 points lower than the level in Type B’s. Lowering HDL by a mere one point is believed to increase the risk of heart attacks by about 3 percent.
While the study does not prove cause and effect, researchers indicate that the stress which is common among Type As causes their bodies to produce a surplus of hormones that lower the HDL level.
Scientists agree that more research is necessary to know for certain whether low HDL actually causes the heart attacks experienced by aggressive personalities. However, if further research confirms the link between low HDL levels and heart attacks, it will provide more evidence to support the theory that stress reduction is good for the heart.
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