When Risk is Unequal: Gendered Pathways to Cardiovascular Disease

Area of Science:

• Global Health
• Cardiology
• Public Health

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is a leading global cause of mortality, with a significant burden in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs).
• Mexico faces challenges from epidemiological transition, social inequality, and clustered cardiometabolic risk.
• Gender disparities in CVD risk exposure, perception, and healthcare access are evident in Mexico.

Purpose of the Study:

• To analyze gender disparities in cardiovascular risk factors, diagnosis, and treatment in Mexico.
• To highlight the impact of sociocultural norms and structural barriers on women's cardiovascular health.
• To emphasize the need for gender-responsive cardiovascular care systems.

Main Methods:

• Utilized data from the 2018 National Health and Nutrition Survey (ENSANUT) in Mexico.
• Examined gender differences in obesity, diabetes, metabolic syndrome prevalence, and diagnosis delays.
• Assessed disparities in healthcare-seeking behavior, treatment patterns, and clinical outcomes.

Main Results:

• Mexican women exhibit higher prevalence of obesity, diabetes, and metabolic syndrome.
• Delayed diagnosis and underrecognition of cardiovascular risk are more common in women.
• Sociocultural norms, financial dependence, and structural barriers impede timely cardiovascular care for women.

Conclusions:

• Conventional CVD risk models overlook sex-specific factors, contributing to diagnostic and treatment disparities.
• Integrated, gender-responsive strategies are crucial for reducing preventable CVD deaths and promoting health equity.
• Policy interventions addressing social determinants of health are essential for equitable cardiovascular care.