Study Finds Grief Can Increase Heart Problems Risks

June 8, 2023
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Elder white woman with white hair holding hands to face in tan sweater on sofa with daylight coming through window

Researchers at the University of Arizona studied the impact of grief on heart function and found that severe grief can cause a marked rise in blood pressure. The findings suggest that grief could be a risk factor for cardiac events.

The idea of "dying of a broken heart," which can happen following the loss of a loved one, was the motivation for the research, said Mary-Frances O'Connor, senior author of the study and a UArizona associate professor of psychology who specializes in grief.

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O'Connor Headshot

Read the full article from UANews

Updated: 06/08/23