Sex and Gender Differences in Aortic Disease.

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Medicine
• Vascular Biology
• Medical Research

Background:

• Aortic dilatation (thoracic or abdominal) can lead to dissection or rupture, causing significant morbidity and mortality.
• Aortic disease is an underestimated, treatable cause of mortality in the US.
• Emerging research highlights sex and gender differences in aortic disease epidemiology, pathophysiology, and outcomes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review existing clinical and biological sex differences in thoracic and abdominal aortic disease.
• To identify promising avenues for future research into sex-specific aortic disease mechanisms.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of clinical studies and biological research on aortic disease.
• Synthesis of current knowledge on sex and gender distinctions in aortic disease.

Main Results:

• Significant sex-based variations exist in the presentation, progression, and outcomes of aortic diseases.
• Current clinical practice has not fully integrated findings on sex differences.

Conclusions:

• Personalizing aortic disease management based on sex-specific mechanisms may reduce morbidity and mortality.
• Further investigation into sex-specific pathophysiology is crucial for advancing clinical care.