Recent studies by Pittsburgh scientists show that a happy married life may be the key in reducing the risk of cardiovascular diseases, supporting earlier studies about links between marriage and cardiovascular disease.

Medical News Today reported earlier this year about a study suggesting that unmarried women are more likely to die from heart disease while New York University states that there is a link between marriage and the reduction of cardiovascular disease.

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In the most recent study, study author Thomas Kamarck, professor of psychology at the University of Pittsburgh Kenneth P. Dietrich School of Arts and Science states that there are evidences that show the link between the quality and patterns of social relationships and several health results.

Researchers from University of Pittsburgh observed 281 healthy, working middle-aged adults for four days on an hourly basis where partners were asked evaluate their interactions whether positive or negative.

They also measured the thickness of subjects' carotid arteries which carry oxygenated blood to the head and neck. Thickening of this major blood vessel can lead to atherosclerosis-a buildup of plaques in the arteries that increases the risk of cardiovascular attacks.

Findings of the study indicate that participants who reported negative interactions with their partners have thicker carotid arteries and have 8.5 percent higher risk of developing heart disease compared to those who reported positive interactions with their partners.

Findings were consistent across all age groups, races, genders and education levels with results remaining even after considering other factors that may influence the risk of heart disease.

"It's another bit of support for the thought that marital or serious romantic relationships play a significant role in overall health. Biological, psychological, and social processes all interact to determine physical health," says Nataria Joseph, lead author of the study.

Tagsmarriage, University of Pittsburgh, cardiovascular disease, happy marriage, Study