Gender differences in patients presenting with non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction in the STAR registry

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Public Health
• Gender Medicine

Background:

• Acute coronary artery (ACS) literature often underrepresents women.
• This study utilizes gender-specific data from the Saudi Acute Myocardial Infarction Registry Program (STARS-1).
• A prospective, multicenter study involving 50 hospitals was conducted on patients diagnosed with ACS.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze gender-specific characteristics and outcomes of patients with non-ST segment elevation myocardial infarction (NSTEMI).
• To identify risk factors, presentation patterns, and in-hospital mortality differences between men and women with NSTEMI.
• To inform strategies for improving cardiovascular care for women.

Main Methods:

• Prospective, multicenter data collection from the STARS-1 registry.
• Analysis of demographic, clinical, and outcome data for 762 NSTEMI patients, with a focus on 164 women.
• Comparison of risk factors, symptom presentation, cardiac function, interventions, and mortality between genders.

Main Results:

• Women were older, had higher BMI, and a greater prevalence of diabetes and hypertension compared to men.
• Atypical presentations (e.g., shortness of breath) were more common in women, who also showed higher rates of heart failure at presentation and follow-up.
• In-hospital mortality was similar (5%) between genders, despite women having a higher morbidity profile.

Conclusions:

• Women with NSTEMI exhibit a higher burden of risk factors and comorbidities, influencing presentation and morbidity.
• While mortality rates were comparable, the increased morbidity highlights the need for targeted interventions.
• Addressing risk factors and promoting healthier lifestyles are essential priorities to improve outcomes and reduce morbidity in women with NSTEMI.