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Review
. 2022 Sep;24(9):701-708.
doi: 10.1007/s11883-022-01046-2. Epub 2022 Jul 1.

Biology, Bias, or Both? The Contribution of Sex and Gender to the Disparity in Cardiovascular Outcomes Between Women and Men

Sarah Gauci  1 , Susie Cartledge  2   3 , Julie Redfern  4 , Robyn Gallagher  3 , Rachel Huxley  5 , Crystal Man Ying Lee  6 , Amy Vassallo  7 , Adrienne O'Neil  8
Affiliations
Review

Biology, Bias, or Both? The Contribution of Sex and Gender to the Disparity in Cardiovascular Outcomes Between Women and Men

Sarah Gauci et al. Curr Atheroscler Rep. 2022 Sep.

Abstract

Purpose of review: Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is the leading cause of mortality and morbidity worldwide for both men and women. However, CVD is understudied, underdiagnosed, and undertreated in women. This bias has resulted in women being disproportionately affected by CVD when compared to men. The aim of this narrative review is to explore the contribution of sex and gender on CVD outcomes in men and women and offer recommendations for researchers and clinicians.

Recent findings: Evidence demonstrates that there are sex differences (e.g., menopause and pregnancy complications) and gender differences (e.g., socialization of gender) that contribute to the inequality in risk, presentation, and treatment of CVD in women. To start addressing the CVD issues that disproportionately impact women, it is essential that these sex and gender differences are addressed through educating health care professionals on gender bias; offering patient-centered care and programs tailored to women's needs; and conducting inclusive health research.

Keywords: Cardiovascular disease; Gender; Sex; Women.

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Conflict of interest statement

The authors declare that they have no conflict of interest.

Figures

Fig. 1
Fig. 1
Examples of the contribution of both sex and gender across the life course on CVD outcomes in women
See this image and copyright information in PMC

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