Association of perceived stress with risks of subsequent illness and death among elderly according to Costa Rican Longevity and Healthy Aging Study (CRELES)

OBJECTIVES: The study aimed to determine the association between perceived stress and chronic diseases, as well as between stress and mortality. METHODS: Data from the Costa Rica Longevity and Healthy Aging Study (CRELES) (N = 2,743) were used. Multiple logistic regression models were employed to analyze the relationship between stress and chronic diseases, while Cox models were used to determine the association between stress and mortality. RESULTS: Stress related to the health of close relatives is associated with an increased risk of developing cardiovascular events and cataracts. Financial stress was associated with twice the risk of developing hypertension. No significant differences in mortality due to stress were found. DISCUSSION: The results suggest that stress influences the development of diseases that could lead to mortality, emphasizing the need for further research on the relationship between stress perception, physical health, mental health, and mortality.