Diseases of the circulatory system.

(from the chapter) Development of circulatory disorders may be considered a function of biological, environmental context, and individual characteristics. A large body of evidence demonstrates that modifying psychosocial and individual characteristics may have a beneficial impact on the development and exacerbation of circulatory disorders, especially coronary heart disease (CHD) and essential hypertension. A significant role for behavioral scientists has emerged in the treatment and prevention of CHD and hypertension, particularly with respect to the role of lifestyle modification (e.g. dietary changes, exercise, smoking cessation, weight management). In addition, psychosocial and stress management treatments have also been shown to be clinically important in the treatment of patients with CHD. M. Raynaud's disease, stroke, and rheumatic fever, which have been less subject to behavioral science research, are considered briefly. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved)