Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women globally. Historically, there have been disparities in diagnosing cardiovascular disease in women as they may have different symptoms than men. Researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital have found that measuring three different biological blood markers can better predict a woman’s risk of having a major cardiovascular event over the next 30 years compared to measuring only one biomarker. Paul M Ridker, MD, director of the Center for Cardiovascular Disease Prevention at Brigham and Women’s Hospital, emphasized the importance of intervening and starting prevention much earlier, as heart disease in women remains under-diagnosed and under-treated.
The study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine, analyzed data from the Women’s Health Study (WHS), which has followed female health professionals ages 45 years and older since 1993. The primary endpoint of the study was a participant having their first major cardiovascular event. The researchers found that measuring hsCRP, LDL-C, and Lp(a) – markers of inflammation, bad cholesterol, and lipid levels, respectively – can provide better insights into a woman’s risk for heart disease. Ridker explained that each of these biomarkers represents modifiable and different biological processes responsible for developing heart disease. Universal screening for these biomarkers could help in identifying and addressing specific issues early on.
The study revealed that women with the highest levels of hsCRP, LDL-C, and Lp(a) had an increased risk of having a major cardiovascular event over the next 30 years. Inflammation assessed by hsCRP was associated with risks 30 years down the road, highlighting the importance of addressing inflammation in preventing heart disease. Women with elevated levels of all three biomarkers were found to be at significantly higher risk of experiencing adverse cardiovascular events. Ridker emphasized the importance of catching these risk factors early in life to institute preventive therapies such as dietary changes, exercise, smoking cessation, and drug therapy.
Nicole Weinberg, MD, a board-certified cardiologist at Providence Saint John’s Health Center, commented on the study, stating that incorporating advanced lipid tests such as lipoprotein(a) into a woman’s preventative testing arsenal is crucial. Identifying and modifying cardiovascular risk factors as early as possible is essential to prevent future cardiovascular events. Weinberg highlighted the importance of understanding the various risk factors for heart disease and taking proactive measures to reduce these risks. By identifying and addressing these risk factors early on, individuals can reduce their chances of experiencing a cardiovascular event and improve their heart health in the long run.
Overall, the study emphasizes the importance of measuring multiple biological blood markers to predict a woman’s risk of cardiovascular events accurately. By screening for and addressing inflammation, bad cholesterol levels, and lipid markers, healthcare providers can better tailor preventive therapies for women at risk of heart disease. Adopting universal screening for these biomarkers can help identify individuals at increased risk and guide interventions to reduce that risk. With a focus on lifetime risks and early intervention, healthcare providers can work towards preventing heart disease in women and improving their overall heart health.
