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Sex differences in lipids: A life course approach
Kirsten B Holven1, Jeanine Roeters van Lennep2
1Department of Nutrition, Institute for Basic Medical Science, University of Oslo, Oslo, Norway; National Advisory Unit on FH, Oslo University Hospital, Oslo, Norway.
Atherosclerosis
|September 20, 2023
Summary
Sex and life stage significantly impact lipid and lipoprotein levels, especially in familial hypercholesterolemia (FH). Understanding these sex-specific, age-related changes is crucial for accurate lipid profile assessment.
Area of Science:
- Cardiovascular Health
- Endocrinology
- Genetics
Background:
- Sex-based differences in lipid and lipoprotein profiles are evident throughout life.
- These differences are amplified in hereditary lipid disorders like familial hypercholesterolemia (FH).
- Cholesterol levels are typically higher from birth in individuals with FH.
Purpose of the Study:
- To delineate sex-specific lipid and lipoprotein trajectories across the lifespan.
- To examine how physiological transitions in women affect lipid profiles.
- To highlight the importance of considering both sex and age in lipid assessment.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on lipid and lipoprotein differences between sexes.
- Analysis of lipid level changes across different life stages (infancy, adulthood, elderly).
- Examination of lipid fluctuations during specific female life transitions (menstrual cycle, pregnancy, menopause).
Main Results:
- Girls have higher LDL-C and total cholesterol than boys in early life.
- Women generally exhibit lower LDL-C and higher HDL-C than men from early adulthood to middle age.
- Lipid levels decrease with age, more significantly in men; female transitions (pregnancy, menopause) alter profiles.
Conclusions:
- Sex and life course are critical determinants of lipid and lipoprotein levels.
- Women with FH experience amplified LDL-C increases during pregnancy due to statin cessation.
- A comprehensive assessment of lipid profiles must integrate sex and age-specific considerations.
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