Granados JAT, et al. - Given that recessions are linked to reduced cardiovascular mortality, but the unemployed have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) or death, researchers assessed simultaneously the links of CVD risk factors with employment status and macroeconomic conditions dominant at the state where the individual lives. They used data from eight consecutive exams (1985-2011) of the CARDIA cohort, modeled in fixed-effect panel regressions, and found lower levels of blood pressure, HDL-cholesterol, and physical activity, and significantly higher depression scores in unemployed individuals, but in terms of smoking status, alcohol consumption, LDL cholesterol levels, body mass index, and waist circumference, they were similar to their counterparts. Overall, a tendency towards improved levels of CVD risk factors but deteriorated mental health was observed during recessions. Notably, more depression was detected in unemployed individuals, as was a likelihood of having lower levels of physical activity and HDL.