An international perspective on priority areas for women’s cardiovascular health research: Qualitative findings from a cross-sectional survey.

Abstract

BackgroundThe Global Cardiovascular Research Funders Forum (GCRFF) unites international research funders interested in supporting cardiovascular disease (CVD) research. One focus area is women’s cardiovascular health; this study identifies priority themes for future joint research funding opportunities. MethodsFollowing ethics approval, a survey was developed based on literature review, GCRFF feedback, and input from methodologists/content experts. The survey was comprised of three open-ended and five multiple choice questions. Using widespread dissemination strategies, an electronic survey portal was opened for eight weeks, from the 15th November 2023 to 15th January 2024, with various language options. Results were downloaded into a secure REDCap database for analysis. Independent theming of responses was completed by three reviewers until coding consensus was achieved, following which one coder completed the remaining theming. Descriptive statistics are reported. ResultsOf 191 responses, all GCRFF nine countries were represented. Most respondents identified as women (74%) and clinicians/academics (77%); fewer people with lived or living experience participated (23%). Common themes included women-specific risk factors and prevention strategies (56%), life course issues (43%), and sex and gender-specific treatments and outcomes (36%). Common topics were CVD (66%), coronary artery disease (18%), and heart disease (13%). Designated research pillars included clinical (52%), population health (36%) and basic science (30%). Solutions proposed included knowledge generation (71%), increased funding (55%), networking researchers (52%), and knowledge mobilization (41%). Congruence of priority ordering was demonstrated between sex and respondent residence subgroups. ConclusionDiverse international input prioritized research in risk factors and prevention strategies specific to women and in sex and gender-specific treatment and outcomes of heart disease, with considerations of life course issues across all research pillars.