Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women, but current clinical guidelines largely reflect data from men, missing key sex-specific differences, says Janet Wei, MD, of Cedars-Sinai’s Smidt Heart Institute. Women have unique risk factors—such as pregnancy complications, premature menopause, and hormone changes—that influence their heart disease risk.
Women also often present differently, with conditions like MINOCA (heart attacks without artery blockages) caused by microvascular dysfunction or vasospasm, complicating diagnosis. Cardiovascular mortality is rising, especially in women under 55, highlighting the need for earlier risk assessment.
Treatment responses differ too: women face higher bleeding risks post-intervention and may benefit from less invasive procedures. Emerging evidence suggests women respond differently to drugs like GLP-1 receptor agonists.
Wei urges major societies like the ACC and AHA to create sex-specific guidelines that address hormonal influences and tailor therapies. This shift promises more personalized, effective care for women’s heart health.
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