Sex-Related Differences in the Prevalence of Classical, Non-Classical Risk Factors and Management of the Chronic Coronary Syndrome

(1) Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains the leading cause of death in both sexes. The male sex is considered a classical atherosclerosis risk factor, whereas females should be protected by hormonal effects until menopause. Although there are known differences in the development, type, and prognosis of chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) between both sexes, there are no differences in approach in the guidelines. (2) Methods: The sex-related differences in CAD risk factors, treatment, echocardiographic, and angiographic results were assessed among 3291 patients with CCS. (3) Results: Women were older and had a higher prevalence of hypertension, dyslipidaemia, and diabetes mellitus than men. Women were more often treated conservatively than men. There was no difference in the use of beta-blockers and statins among the sexes. The LDL cholesterol goal was less frequently reached by women. Women were treated less often with aspirin than men, but they were treated more often with angiotensin receptor blockers than men. The left ventricle ejection fraction was higher among females. The number of obstructed vessels was higher in men. (4) Conclusions: Women may be more exposed to the risk factors of CAD than men. Men are diagnosed with CAD earlier, and their prevention and therapy are more efficient.

Automated summary

This study found that women with chronic coronary syndrome have a higher prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors such as hypertension, dyslipidemia, and diabetes mellitus. Women were more often treated conservatively and had a lower frequency of achieving the LDL cholesterol goal. Additionally, women were more often treated with angiotensin receptor blockers and had a higher left ventricle ejection fraction. Men were diagnosed with coronary artery disease earlier and had more efficient prevention and therapy.