Addressing the Gap in Physician Preparedness To Assess Cardiovascular Risk in Women: a Comprehensive Approach to Cardiovascular Risk Assessment in Women

Abstract

Purpose of review: Increased recognition of risk factors and improved knowledge of sex-specific presentations has led to improved clinical outcomes for women with cardiovascular disease (CVD) compared to two decades ago. Yet, CVD remains the leading cause of death for women in the USA. Women have unique risk factors for CVD that continue to go under-recognized by their physicians.

Recent findings: In a nationwide survey of primary care physicians (PCPs) and cardiologists, only 22% of PCPs and 42% of cardiologists reported being extremely well prepared to assess CVD risk in women. A presidential advisory from the American Heart Association (AHA) and American College of Obstetrics and Gynecologist (ACOG) recommends that cardiologists and obstetricians and gynecologists (Ob/Gyns) collaborate to promote CVD risk identification and reduction throughout a woman's lifetime. We suggest a comprehensive approach to identify unique and traditional risk factors for CVD in women, address the gap in physician knowledge, and improve cardiovascular care for women.

Keywords: Heart disease; Hypertension; Lipids; Menopause; Risk assessment; Risk factors; Women.