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How men and women with heart disease seek care: the delay experience
1Department of Nursing, Rutgers, State University of New Jersey, Camden, USA.
Insights
Women experiencing coronary heart disease (CHD) symptoms are more likely to contact family, unlike men. Smokers delay care less, highlighting gender differences in CHD symptom experience and care-seeking behaviors.
Area of Science:
- Cardiology
- Public Health
- Gender Studies
Background:
- Coronary heart disease (CHD) is a leading cause of death in the U.S.
- Research on CHD has historically focused on men, with less understanding of its impact on women.
- Delayed medical care seeking for CHD symptoms contributes significantly to morbidity and mortality.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare the experiences of men and women in seeking medical care for coronary heart disease (CHD) symptoms.
- To identify factors contributing to delays in care-seeking for CHD symptoms, with a focus on gender differences.
Main Methods:
- A sample of 121 male and female patients admitted to cardiac units in an urban hospital were interviewed.
- A questionnaire was used to collect data on demographics and factors influencing delay in seeking care for CHD symptoms.
Main Results:
- Women were more likely than men to consult a family member when experiencing CHD symptoms.
- Individuals who were current or former smokers were less likely to delay seeking care for symptoms.
- Significant gender-based differences were observed in the experience of seeking care for CHD symptoms.
Conclusions:
- Findings indicate distinct patterns in how men and women experience and respond to CHD symptoms.
- Interventions aimed at reducing delays in seeking care for CHD should consider gender-specific approaches.
- Further research is needed to explore these differences and develop targeted strategies for improving CHD outcomes in both men and women.
Abstract:
Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death among American men and women. Much research has focused on CHD in men while less is known about the disease in women. Traditionally, research protocols have excluded women or have not addressed gender differences in the experience of the disease. A major factor contributing to morbidity and mortality is delay in seeking medical care when experiencing symptoms of CHD. The purpose of this study was to examine the experiences of men and women with symptoms of CHD in seeking care. A sample of 121 men and women admitted to one of two cardiac units in an urban hospital were interviewed using a questionnaire concerning demographics and factors related to delay. The study demonstrated that women were more likely than men to contact a family member when experiencing symptoms. Smokers and previous smokers with symptoms were less likely to delay seeking care. The findings suggest important differences in the experience of CHD among men and women. Implications for practice and directions for further research are discussed. The information gained can be used to develop interventions that reduce delay and improve health care for men and women with CHD.
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