[Stress as a risk factor].

A variety of evidence shows that stress contributes to the triggering and aggravation of cardiovascular pathology, notably ischemic cardiopathy. Experimentally induced changes that may be pathogenic due to their duration or repetition can be produced in hemodynamics, hemostasis or lipid metabolism. Prospective studies in healthy subjects have confirmed the predictive value of certain behavioral patterns (A, for instance), and it is known that individuals presenting such characteristics exhibit increased neuroendocrine responses to all types of stress. Changes in blood pressure in response to stress in hypertensives and normotensives also depend on personality and preferred adaptative strategies (coping). These considerations lead to therapeutic approaches intended to ensure long-term prevention of cardiovascular morbidity.