The study's author cautions that hostility, as measured in this study, should be not confused with anger. Hostility is looking at the world in a very cynical way, having the perspective that people are out to get you, that you'll never get ahead. The study also found that men with high hostility scores were more likely to be overweight, with fat distribution in the abdomen and upper body, factors that also increase the risk for cardiovascular disease. The findings also noted a correlation between low levels of education and higher hostility levels. Niaura is hopeful that the findings will encourage practitioners to look seriously at these issues when evaluating patients.
Hostility is more than just a nuisance.
It could have real associated health risks. The study should also be taken seriously by patients, the author said.