New insights into sexual dimorphism in cardiometabolic health

Sexual dimorphism is evident in several key metabolic processes, extending to the pathophysiology, incidence, and progression of cardiometabolic diseases and forming distinct risk profiles between men and women. This review provides insights into the fundamental mechanisms underlying sexual dimorphism in cardiometabolic disease risk and onset. Sex-specific cardiometabolic health outcomes are correlated with genetic, hormonal, and metabolism-associated risk factors, immunological variations, and lifestyle. Compared to men of corresponding age and BMI, premenopausal women are at lower risk of cardiometabolic disorders-an advantage that disappears after menopause-revealing the adverse health alterations stimulated by chronological and ovarian aging. Despite the increased incidence and morbidity of cardiometabolic diseases, current preventive, diagnostic, and treatment approaches remain non-sex- and non-age-specific and hence partially ineffective. We outline the implications of cardiometabolic sexual dimorphism and explore current strategies, highlighting the significance of age-weighted, sex-distinct prevention and treatment strategies for achievement of improved outcomes.