Psychocardiology's Contributions to Comprehensive Cardiovascular Care in Cuba.

Abstract

This paper describes psychocardiology studies conducted from 2002 through 2018 in the Cardiology Department of the Dr Gustavo Aldereguía Lima University General Hospital in Cienfuegos Province, Cuba. Given the strong association between cardiovascular diseases and lifestyle, negative emotions and personality traits, psychology and medicine are equally necessary components of prevention and patient care, indispensable to primary and secondary prevention and to rehabilitation. When its therapeutic principles are appropriately applied, psychology can have a positive impact on the course of the disease and on patients' adaptation to new habits and lifestyles. The psychocardiologist's job is fundamental in achieving conscious participation by patients in their rehabilitation. Theoretical and practical contributions include a gender-based approach, addressing patients' sexual needs, neuropsychological assessment of damage associated with cardiovascular diseases, the particularities of pediatric patient care, family involvement in rehabilitation, and services for families at risk for cardiovascular events due to genetic factors. Results of these studies are included in published methodology for intensive psychological treatment for patients and health care workers.