Mitral Regurgitation in Female Patients: Sex Differences and Disparities

Mitral regurgitation is the most common valvular disease, particularly in older adults. Recent literature has consistently supported that there are significant differences in mitral regurgitation outcomes between male and female patients and that this is likely multifactorial. Numerous sex differences in anatomy and pathophysiology may play a role in delayed diagnoses, referrals, and treatments for female patients. Despite the recognition of these discrepancies in the literature, many guidelines that steer clinical care do not incorporate these factors into society recommendations. Identifying and validating sex-specific diagnostic parameters and increasing the representation of female patients in trials of new mitral regurgitation treatment modalities are key factors in improving outcomes for female patients.