Lonely hearts don't check their hearts: social support in cardiovascular risk screening

Abstract

Background. Few studies have investigated what factors promote regular screening for cardiovascular risk. The aim of this study was to investigate the relationship between social support and adherence to hypertension and blood cholesterol screening. Methods. We analyzed data from the Spanish National Health Survey-a cross-sectional representative survey conducted by the Spanish Ministry of Health in 2012 (N=21 007). Participants reported whether they had their blood pressure and cholesterol levels measured in the previous 12 months. Social support was measured with a validated scale. Multiple logistic regressions were conducted adjusted for socio-demographic variables and multiple health-related factors. The obtained results were replicated in a previous wave of the survey (2007, N=29 478). Findings. Compared to individuals who reported sufficient social support, individuals who perceived a lack of social support were on average twice less likely to report participation in blood pressure and cholesterol screening. Discussion. Increasing perceptions of social support can promote regular screening for cardiovascular risk. Future research should investigate what specific supportive behaviours most effectively increase screening participation among high risk populations.