The development of sex differences in cardiovascular disease mortality: a historical perspective

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Public Health
• Cardiovascular Disease Research

Background:

• Cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality rates are higher in males than females, but the historical origins of this disparity are unclear.
• Understanding the historical context of sex differences in CVD mortality is crucial for identifying underlying causes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate historical trends in cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality differences between males and females.
• To determine if male excess CVD mortality has consistently existed throughout the historical record.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of mortality statistics for cardiovascular disease (CVD) in England and Wales (1861-1992) and the United States (1900-1991).
• Examination of CVD mortality trends across the full range of age groups over time.

Main Results:

• Three distinct stages were identified in the relationship between male and female CVD mortality.
• These stages include an initial period of equal mortality, followed by the emergence of sex differences, and finally, consistent male excess mortality.
• Male excess mortality from CVD is a relatively recent phenomenon in the historical data.

Conclusions:

• Male excess mortality from cardiovascular disease (CVD) is not a constant historical feature.
• Further research is necessary to understand the factors contributing to the current male excess CVD mortality.