Cardiovascular diseases in women: a statement from the policy conference of the European Society of Cardiology

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Gender Medicine

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) are the leading cause of death in Europe for both genders, accounting for 55% of female deaths.
• A common misperception exists that women are protected against heart disease, leading to underestimation of risk and delayed diagnosis.
• Women's risk of cardiac events increases significantly after menopause, and clinical presentations of ischemic heart disease can differ from men's.

Purpose of the Study:

• To summarize the current understanding of CVD in women from a European perspective.
• To identify critical knowledge gaps in CVD research concerning women.
• To outline strategies for improving risk stratification, diagnosis, therapy, and clinical trial representation for women.

Main Methods:

• Convened a Policy Conference with European Society of Cardiology experts.
• Collected expert opinions on the state-of-the-art, scientific gaps, and strategic priorities for CVD in women.
• Reviewed and commented on the current knowledge base and prioritized future actions.

Main Results:

• Highlighted the underestimation of CVD risk in women and the unique challenges in diagnosis and treatment.
• Identified specific scientific gaps in understanding CVD pathophysiology and clinical manifestations in women.
• Emphasized the need for a gender-specific approach to CVD prevention, diagnosis, and management.

Conclusions:

• Urgent action is needed to address the misperception of CVD in women and improve cardiovascular care.
• A coordinated European approach, supported by national health authorities, is essential to advance research and implement effective strategies.
• Increased representation of women in clinical trials is critical for developing gender-specific treatments and improving outcomes.