Cardiometabolic disorders in individuals with obsessive-compulsive disorder: From mechanisms to lifestyle modification interventions

Obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD) is a prevalent and impairing mental disorder associated with an increased risk of metabolic and cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and death due to cardiovascular causes. However, the mechanisms underlying this association are unknown.

Moreover, it is unknown if lifestyle modification interventions can reduce cardiometabolic risk factors in individuals with OCD. The objectives of this research project are two-fold.

First, we will investigate the causal associations between OCD and CVD using genetic correlations and bi-directional Mendelian randomization. Second, we will evaluate a lifestyle intervention to reduce cardiometabolic risk factors in individuals with OCD. We will do this in two steps. Step 1 is a pilot study to evaluate trial procedures and test the feasibility of the intervention.

Step 2 will consist of a randomized controlled trial examining efficacy and cost-effectiveness of the lifestyle intervention for OCD, compared to medical advice and treatment as usual. The results of this project will inform prevention and intervention strategies and clinical guidelines.

Additionally, if our lifestyle intervention program proves to be successful in reducing cardiometabolic risk and does so in a cost-effective manner, we will aim to implement the intervention in routine clinical care, which would contribute to reducing morbidity and mortality rates in this population.