Scientists have named a factor that can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke by 24%

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A new study has shown that people who experience stress are more likely to suffer heart attacks or strokes.

The study, which included 118,706 people from 21 countries, found that stressful events such as divorce, unemployment, bereavement and serious illness in a family member were associated with an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes. The overall increased risk was found to be 24 percent for heart attacks and 30 percent for strokes. Previous studies have shown that stress can have both long-term and short-term effects on the body.This can trigger the release of stress hormones, which increase heart rate and blood pressure. People who experience high levels of stress are also more likely to smoke and drink alcohol, which increases the risk of heart attacks.

A study at Harvard found that the part of the brain that processes stress can send signals that alter immune activity and cause inflammation in the arteries.

The new study can't determine whether stress has an immediate or long-term effect.

“It's not known exactly what causes the increased risk of heart disease among people who are under severe stress. But stress can affect many different processes in the body, such as atherosclerosis and blood clotting. If we want to reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease worldwide, we need to consider stress as another modifiable risk factor.”

The National Health Service lists common physical symptoms of stress, such as headaches, muscle aches, stomach problems, chest pains and problems with sex. Mental symptoms can include difficulty concentrating, making decisions, remembering things and feeling anxious and worried.