Challenges to Cardiovascular Health Among Female U.S. Veterans and Future Implications: A Scoping Review

Area of Science:

• Cardiovascular Health
• Veterans Affairs Healthcare
• Public Health

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading cause of death for women in the U.S.
• U.S. female Veterans exhibit higher CVD rates than civilian women.
• Rising female military personnel necessitates prioritized cardiovascular care within the DoD and VHA.

Purpose of the Study:

• Identify challenges in cardiovascular health among U.S. female Veterans.
• Explore potential future implications and interventions for female Veteran CVD care.
• Guide further research and policy development for enhanced cardiovascular outcomes.

Main Methods:

• A modified PRISMA-ScR search was conducted on May 1, 2024.
• Databases searched included PubMed, CINAHL, and OVID.
• Included studies focused on U.S. female Veterans, CVD, and VHA data from the past 10 years.

Main Results:

• 34 studies revealed challenges in CVD care for female Veterans.
• Identified disparities include racial/ethnic and gender-specific issues.
• Key challenges involve nontraditional risk factors, healthcare access, awareness, and willingness to receive care.

Conclusions:

• Female Veterans face barriers, unique risk factors, and disparities in accessing VHA CVD care.
• Recommendations include pre-transition education by the DoD and enhanced VHA provider training.
• Improved research, screening, education, and social support are vital for female Veteran cardiovascular health.