Gender Differences in Atherosclerotic Vascular Disease: From Lipids to Clinical Outcomes

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular medicine
• Atherosclerosis research
• Gender and health studies

Background:

• Cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are a leading global cause of death and disability.
• Atherosclerosis, a primary driver of CVDs, involves complex metabolic changes and often presents acutely.
• Observed gender-related differences in CVD incidence and outcomes suggest a significant influence of biological sex.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the impact of gender and age on atherosclerotic processes.
• To explore how sex influences the development and clinical presentation of atherosclerotic cardiovascular diseases (ACDs).
• To examine the metabolic underpinnings, potentially involving sex hormones, of atherosclerosis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review focusing on gender and age effects in atherosclerosis.
• Analysis of clinical manifestations and disease progression in relation to sex.
• Exploration of metabolic pathways and hormonal influences on atherosclerotic development.

Main Results:

• Significant gender-based variations exist in the prevalence, clinical course, and outcomes of various cardiovascular diseases, including ischemic heart disease (IHD) and cerebrovascular disease.
• Atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (ACD), encompassing IHD and stroke, shows distinct patterns between genders.
• Age interacts with gender to modify disease risk and presentation, with specific differences noted across age demographics.

Conclusions:

• Gender and age are critical determinants in the development and manifestation of atherosclerosis and related cardiovascular diseases.
• Sex hormones likely play a role in the metabolic basis of atherosclerosis, contributing to observed gender differences.
• This understanding is vital for physicians across specialties to tailor prevention and management strategies for cardiovascular health.