By Stephen Beech

Stalking victims are up to 70% more likely to suffer a heart attack or stroke following their ordeal, according to new research.

Women who have been stalked are at "significantly" higher risk of heart disease, say scientists.

The American study showed that women who experienced being stalked or who obtained restraining orders were 41% more likely to develop heart disease over the following 20 years than women who had not been through the harrowing experience.

The risk of developing cardiovascular disease was "significantly" higher among women who obtained a restraining order for protection than those who had not requested one, according to the findings published in the journal Circulation .

Researchers say the link between stalking and cardiovascular disease may be

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