Unique features of dyslipidemia in women across a lifetime and a tailored approach to management

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Endocrinology
• Women's Health

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a major global health concern.
• Dyslipidemia is a key modifiable risk factor for CVD, disproportionately affecting women and racial/ethnic minorities.
• Pregnancy-related dyslipidemia increases long-term cardiovascular risk in women, who are often underdiagnosed and undertreated.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current understanding of dyslipidemia in women.
• To highlight the unique pathophysiological aspects and management strategies for female dyslipidemia.
• To emphasize the need for improved screening and treatment protocols for women.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of recent clinical trials and epidemiological data.
• Analysis of gender-specific differences in dyslipidemia pathophysiology and treatment response.
• Evaluation of guideline-directed medical therapy for women.

Main Results:

• Women exhibit distinct dyslipidemia pathophysiology across their lifespan, with conditions like PCOS and FH posing risks for younger individuals.
• Recent trials show differential efficacy of lipid-lowering agents (ezetimibe, inclisiran, bempedoic acid) with greater relative benefits for women.
• Women are underrepresented in clinical trials for lipid-lowering therapies despite higher disease prevalence.

Conclusions:

• Optimal management of dyslipidemia in women requires early screening and personalized treatment strategies.
• Lifestyle interventions combined with pharmacotherapy (statins and non-statins) are essential to meet LDL-C targets.
• Addressing the underrepresentation of women in clinical trials is critical for advancing evidence-based care.