Genetic markers for trait anxiety as one of the risk factors for cardiovascular diseases (WHO-MONICA program, MONICA-Psychosocial subprogram)

Aim. To determine an association between trait anxiety (TA) and variable number tandem repeat (VNTR) polymorphisms in the DRD4 and DAT genes, as well as the prevalence of TA and the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in 25- to 64-year-old males with TA. Subjects and methods. A representative sample of 25 to 64-year-old males (n=2149) was examined within the framework of the WHO MONICA program, MONICA-psychosocial subprogram, in 1984, 1988, and 1994. All new-onset arterial hypertension (AH), myocardial infarction (MI), and stroke cases were registered throughout the follow-up study (1984-2008). Spielberger's test was used to estimate the level of TA. The Cox proportional regression model was applied to assess a relative risk. Results. The high level of anxiety (HLA) was 50.9% in the open population of 25 to 64-year-old males. The DRD4 genotype 4/6 and DAT genotype 9/9 were significantly associated with HLA. The latter increased the risk for CVD: it was maximal for AH and stroke within the first five years and for MI within 10 years. Conclusion. HLA was significant in the Novosibirsk open population of 25 to 64-year-old males. It is substantially associated with certain VNTR polymorphisms in the DRD4 and DAT genes and considerably increases the risk of CVD.