WomenHeart Series: Depression and the Heart

Moral of the Story: One area of heart health that has been garnering a lot of attention recently in physician circles is the link between depression and cardiovascular disease. This is an in depth discussion about the clinical relationship, which is still unclear, between the two and what screening and preventive actions should be taken. This is specifically about women, however the relationship holds true for men as well.

http://www.theheart.org/article/921585.do

WomenHeart Series: Depression and the Heart
Depression is common among patients with cardiovascular disease (CVD), particularly women. Clinical depression and heightened depressive symptoms have been associated with adverse outcomes in both male and female cardiac patients. The exact mechanisms by which depression affects outcome remain to be elucidated and there is some debate over whether depression precedes or follows cardiac events. Even so, a 2008 AHA Science Advisory supports the need for screening and treating depression in patients with coronary heart disease. Our expert panel discusses the links between depression and CVD and how screening and treatment for depression can be integrated into clinical practice.
To participate in this internet activity: (1) review the target audience, learning objectives, and author disclosures; (2) study the education content; (3) take the post-test and/or complete the evaluation; (4) view/print certificate.
SPONSORSHIP STATEMENT
This program is developed in conjunction with WomenHeart: The National Coalition for Women with Heart Disease.
Purpose / goal
The purpose of this activity is to educate clinicians to recognize and treat depression in patients with cardiovascular disease.
Target audience
This program is intended for cardiologists, primary care physicians and other healthcare providers involved in the management of patients with cardiovascular disease.
Educational objectives
At the conclusion of this program, participants will be able to:
Outline the clinical significance of depression in patients with CVD
Review data on the treatment of depression and CV risk
Summarize guidelines for the screening and treatment of depression in patients with CVD
Accreditation statement
Medscape is accredited by the Accreditation Council for Continuing Medical Education (ACCME) to provide continuing medical education for physicians.Medscape designates this educational activity for a maximum of 0.5 AMA PRA Category 1 Credit™. Each participant should only claim credit commensurate with the extent of his/her participation in the activity. For questions or assistance, please contact CME@medscape.net