Comparative optimism among patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) is associated with fewer adverse clinical events 12 months later.

The current study evaluates the levels of comparative optimism among patients with coronary heart disease (CHD) and examines its relationship to health outcomes 12 months later. 164 patients completed self-report questionnaires at the end of cardiac rehabilitation and the number of adverse clinical events in the following 12 months were recorded. Comparative optimism was assessed in relation to a typical other who has not had cardiac event, a typical other who has had the same cardiac event as the respondent, and a typical member of the cardiac rehabilitation class. Clinical-demographic details and distress were assessed. Participants were comparatively optimistic in all three ratings. Logistic regression (controlling for age, gender, co-morbidities, and distress) revealed that higher levels of adverse events were associated with older age, being male, and lower levels of overall comparative optimism. Comparative optimism was associated with decreased risk of adverse clinical events in the year following cardiac rehabilitation attendance.