Med Sci (Paris). 2025 Dec;41(12):975-985. doi: 10.1051/medsci/2025225. Epub 2026 Jan 6.
ABSTRACT
Myocardial infarction is a major public health concern for women. Hospitalization rates are increasing, particularly among young women. This trend is probably linked to the growing prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and specific conditions that can increase the risk of myocardial infraction, such as early menopause, estrogen-progestogen contraception, endometriosis and chest radiation therapy for breast cancer. From a patho-physiological perspective, women have distinct characteristics. They have a higher proportion of myocardial infraction without significant coronary obstruction, including spontaneous coronary dissection, which can occur during pregnancy. Women also have smaller coronary and radial arteries with more frequent tortuosity, which can complicate interventional procedures. Additionally, disparities in the management of myocardial infraction in women have been observed. They tend to seek medical attention later and are less likely to benefit from invasive strategies, such as revascularization or coronary artery bypass grafting. In conclusion, myocardial infraction in women have many clinical and pathophysiological specificities. Additional efforts are needed to improve care and ensure equality in treatment by taking into account the specific characteristics of women.
PMID:41494064 | DOI:10.1051/medsci/2025225