Heart disease risk is still underestimated in women, stemming from older notions that women are less at risk. The prevalence of myocardial infarctions (MI) have increased in middle-aged women over the last tow decades while rates have declined for men of the same age. Heart disease occurs seven to 10 years later in women than men of the same age. Heart disease occurs seven to 10 years later in women that men and is the major cause of death in women over 65. Women are less likely to be referred for diagnostic (functional ischemia testing, diagnostic angiograms) and interventional procedures than men. The under recognition of heart disease in women and its different clinical presentations correspond with less aggressive treatment for women and underrepresentation in clinical studies. For more information contact Dr. Jenkins at drjenkinsbcnd@nathealthsol.com |