Exploring how psychological stress affects heart disease risk
Official title: An Integrated Model of Contextual Safety, Social Safety, and Social Vigilance as Psychosocial Contributors to Cardiovascular Disease
Funded at University of Arizona · NIH-10988235 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how stress affects heart health, especially for people with cardiovascular disease, and it wants to hear about your experiences with stress and social connections to help find ways to keep hearts healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project start | January 24, 2024 |
| Project end | January 23, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31HL170513-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10988235 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing high levels of psychological stress or those with a history of cardiovascular issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no psychological stress or those without cardiovascular disease risk factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between psychological stress and cardiovascular disease (CVD) outcomes, focusing on how stress influences heart health. It utilizes established theories like the Generalized Unsafety Theory of Stress and Social Safety Theory to understand the biological and behavioral pathways linking stress to heart disease. By examining factors such as contextual safety and social engagement, the research aims to uncover how these psychosocial elements contribute to CVD risk. Patients may be asked to share their experiences with stress and social interactions to help identify patterns that could inform prevention strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing cardiovascular disease by addressing psychological and social factors.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between stress and cardiovascular health, supporting the relevance of this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Arizona
Tucson, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'neill, Riley Maria — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: O'neill, Riley Maria
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.