Answer to Question 1
In addition to biological and possibly genetic causes, CVD is affected by certain psychological factors. These include health behavior, such as smoking, lack of exercise, and unhealthy diet; immediate and chronic stress, which can damage the heart; personality, with an emphasis on Type A behavior, especially hostility; and the presence of depression and anxiety, since depression is three times more common among CHD patients than the general population. While it remains unknown whether depression acts as a symptom or a cause of CHD, it is certain that anxiety is a critical aspect of sudden cardiac death.
Answer to Question 2
While cancer is a biological disorder with genetic and physiological causes, there are still links between this disease and behavior and stress. The major preventable cause of cancer in the United States is a voluntary behavior, smoking. For those with cancer, there is the danger of anxiety and depression, both of which can lead to behavior that is unhealthy, such as drinking alcohol or failing to maintain a healthy diet and exercise regime. Social support can contribute to healthy behavior, medication and treatment compliance, and reduced stress.
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