Psychosocial stress at work has been proposed as a risk factor for cerebro- and cardiovascular event (CVE) such as stroke or acute myocardial infarction (MI). However, data on psychosocial factors (PSF) profile in patients with CVE are scarce. In a multidisciplinary approach, we aimed to characterize PSF burden in patients with acute stroke or MI.

In a prospective pilot study, 45 patients aged<60years, currently working and hospitalized for stroke or MI were included. Risk scores (GRACE, Charlson) were examined across categories of PSF (perceived disease severity, anxiety/depression, stress at work, quality of life at work).

Among the 44 patients included, 77% had acute MI and 23% stroke. Mean age was 50 years, 77% were male, 43% were current smokers, 39% had hypertension, 41% hypercholesterolemia and 36% obesity. Education level was at 4,65 (secondary education), and most (41%) had low socioprofessional status. Mean level of PSF were: perceived disease severity (4,5/5), anxiety/depression (0,91/4), stress at work (2,75/5), quality of life at work (3,67/5). GRACE and CHARLSON risk scores were at 6 and 93, respectively. Severity of the disease perceived by the patient was correlated positively with the stress experienced before CVE (r=0.20, P<0.07) and with the patient's current anxiety (r=0.20, P<0.07) and negatively with the quality of life at work experienced before the CVE (r=0.11, P<0.10). Comorbidity score (CHARLSON) was not correlated with the perceived severity of the disease (r=−0.06, P<0.28). Moreover, GRACE score showed a trend toward a correlation with the stress felt before MI (r=−0.19, P<0.28).

These preliminary data from a pilot study in young patients with acute CVE shows a high PSF burden and suggest for the first time the disconnection between perceived and true severity disease. If confirmed at a larger scale, our data could identify new opportunities for preventive strategies.