[Chest pain and cardiovascular diseases in women : Diagnostics and treatment]

Janet-Jacqueline Olic1, Andrea Baessler2, Marcus Fischer3

  • 1Klinik und Poliklinik für Innere Medizin II, Universitätsklinikum Regensburg, Franz-Josef-Strauß-Allee 11, 93053, Regensburg, Deutschland.

Herz
|November 6, 2023
PubMed

Insights

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) affect women disproportionately, especially post-menopause. Early diagnosis of conditions like ischemia with nonobstructive coronary arteries (INOCA) is crucial for effective prevention and treatment in women.

Area of Science:

  • Cardiology and Women's Health
  • Understanding sex and gender differences in cardiovascular disease (CVD) epidemiology and clinical presentation.

Context:

  • CVD is the leading cause of death globally for both men and women.
  • Women experience a significant increase in CVD incidence post-menopause.
  • Hormonal, anatomical, and sociocultural factors contribute to sex and gender disparities in CVD.

Purpose:

  • To highlight CVD risk factors specific to women, including autoimmune and pregnancy-associated diseases.
  • To emphasize the importance of considering ischemia with nonobstructive coronary arteries (INOCA) in women presenting with angina pectoris.
  • To advocate for targeted diagnostics for coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) and coronary spasms in symptomatic women.

Summary:

  • Classical CVD risk factors are insufficient for women; specific factors like autoimmune and pregnancy-related conditions must be included in prevention strategies.
  • Women with angina may have INOCA, often due to CMD or coronary spasms, necessitating further investigation beyond standard coronary angiography.
  • Early, targeted diagnostic approaches for CMD and coronary spasms are essential for women with symptomatic coronary artery disease.

Impact:

  • Improved primary and secondary prevention strategies for coronary heart disease (CHD) tailored to women's unique risk profiles.
  • Enhanced diagnostic protocols for women experiencing angina, ensuring conditions like INOCA are identified and managed effectively.
  • Reduced cardiovascular mortality and morbidity in women through a more comprehensive understanding and management of CVD.

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