Prevention of Coronary Artery Disease in Women.

Abstract

Cardiovascular disease remains the leading cause of morbidity and mortality in women. Women were historically underrepresented in landmark trials for which cardiovascular guidelines are based on and are prone to gender-specific risk factors that predispose to coronary heart disease. More attention has been made on gender and pregnancy-associated risk factors such as autoimmune disorders and preeclampsia. The most recent guidelines have reflected the need to consider risk-enhancing factors that are unaccounted for in traditional risk assessment tools. As the population ages and the burden of cardiovascular disease in women increases, it is crucial to continue focusing on preventative of cardiovascular disease in women.