Gender and CVD- Does It Really Matters?

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Genetics
• Endocrinology

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading global cause of death.
• Women, while having lower prevalence, face higher mortality and worse prognosis post-cardiovascular events compared to men.
• Disparities in CVD epidemiology, pathophysiology, and treatment stem from genetic and hormonal differences between sexes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and summarize the gender differences in various cardiovascular diseases.
• To highlight the under-recognition and undertreatment of cardiovascular death in women.
• To emphasize the importance of considering gender in CVD management.

Main Methods:

• Literature review and synthesis of existing studies on gender differences in CVD.
• Analysis of epidemiological data comparing male and female CVD incidence and outcomes.
• Examination of pathophysiological and genetic factors contributing to gender disparities.

Main Results:

• Ischemic heart disease manifests later in women (7-10 years) than in men.
• Men are significantly more prone to ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) and non-STEMI than women.
• Gender disparities exist across coronary artery disease, heart failure, LBBB, atrial fibrillation, drug effects, and risk factors.

Conclusions:

• Cardiovascular death in women is a significant, under-recognized concern.
• Tailoring prevention, diagnosis, and treatment strategies to account for gender differences is essential for improving patient outcomes.
• Further research into gender-specific CVD mechanisms and interventions is warranted.