Childhood Stress, Loneliness, and Cardiovascular Diseases in Later Life: Does Family Support or Friend Support Matter?

This study investigates the associations between distinct childhood stressors (i.e., health threats, financial hardship, and interpersonal trauma) and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) in later life, with a focus on loneliness as a mediator and the moderating roles of family and friend support. Cross-sectional data were used in this study, including 5,007 Hong Kong residents aged 50 and above. CVD was assessed via self-reported diagnoses of heart diseases or stroke. All three childhood stressors were associated with increased CVD risk in old age, with loneliness significantly mediating these associations. Friend support consistently buffered the effects of all stressors on loneliness, whereas family support was protective only in case of financial hardship. These findings advance understanding of the psychological pathways connecting childhood stress to CVD. It highlights that the efficacy of social support varies based on the type of social relationship and stressor domain, rather than serving as a generic buffer.