Sex differences in delay times in ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction: A cohort study

Area of Science:

• Cardiology
• Gender Health
• Acute Myocardial Infarction Research

Background:

• Investigating gender disparities in ST-segment elevation acute myocardial infarction (STEMI) outcomes.
• Analyzing ischemia-reperfusion times in relation to sex differences.
• Focusing on long-term follow-up of STEMI patients.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate gender differences in ischemia-reperfusion times for STEMI patients.
• To assess the impact of delayed healthcare-seeking on long-term cardiovascular events in STEMI.
• To highlight the need for improved awareness and timely intervention for women with STEMI.

Main Methods:

• Single-center analytical cohort study.
• Inclusion of 2668 STEMI patients (25% female) from January 2015 to December 2020.
• Comparison of symptom-to-reperfusion times between genders.

Main Results:

• Women experienced significantly longer symptom-to-reperfusion times (220 min) compared to men (197 min).
• Delayed healthcare access in women led to longer STEMI diagnosis and coronary reperfusion times.
• A delay in healthcare seeking was associated with increased cardiovascular adverse events at follow-up (HR 1.34).

Conclusions:

• Women face significant delays in seeking care for STEMI, impacting diagnosis and treatment.
• There is a critical need for enhanced public education on recognizing STEMI symptoms in women.
• Empowering women to seek immediate medical attention is vital for reducing adverse cardiovascular events.