Preliminary research conducted in the US has found that having a violent encounter with an intimate partner or family member even once may increase a young adult's risk of having a heart attack, stroke, or hospitalisation for heart failure years later. Women, between the ages of 18 and 34), are at a higher risk owing to the disproportionately higher rates at which they are subjected to intimate partner violence, according to the National Domestic Violence Hotline in the US.

"There is a growing body of evidence that links intimate partner violence -- a significant mental and physical trauma -- to adverse cardiovascular outcomes," said lead study author Kathryn Recto from Northwestern University's Feinberg School of Medicine in Chicago. The preliminary research is set to be presented at the American Heart Association's Scientific Sessions 2022 in Chicago on November 5 to 7. Intimate partner violence refers to any physical, emotional, or mental abuse or aggression occurring in a romantic relationship between a current or former spouse or dating partner.