Arterial Hypertension in Women: State of the Art and Knowledge Gaps

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Women's Health
• Reproductive Endocrinology

Background:

• Hypertension is the primary global risk factor for cardiovascular disease (CVD) and premature mortality in women.
• Significant knowledge gaps exist regarding sex-specific pathophysiology, risk factors, and clinical management of hypertension in females.
• Current clinical guidelines insufficiently acknowledge female-specific risk factors for hypertension and CVD.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing evidence on women and female-specific risk factors for hypertension.
• To examine the clinical management of hypertension in women.
• To identify critical knowledge gaps for research, clinical practice, and public awareness.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of studies on hypertension in women.
• Analysis of female-specific risk factors, including reproductive and societal influences.
• Evaluation of current clinical guidelines and research participation demographics.

Main Results:

• Female-specific risk factors encompass gynecological conditions, adverse pregnancy outcomes, and menopause.
• Societal roles and gender disparities in healthcare and research participation contribute to limited evidence-based recommendations.
• Hypertension development in women often begins in premenopausal stages, linked to reproductive disorders.

Conclusions:

• Hypertension in women requires early-life management, particularly in premenopausal stages associated with reproductive health.
• Lower diagnostic and treatment thresholds for hypertension may be necessary for women due to earlier CVD onset.
• Addressing knowledge gaps and promoting women-specific research are crucial for improving cardiovascular health outcomes.