A new study has revealed that women’s arteries are on average clearer than men’s, however this does not reduce the risk of heart disease.
The research, published in the American Heart Association journal Circulation Cardiovascular Imaging, examined more than 4,200 adults. According to the results, arterial blockage or atherosclerosis was found in 55 percent of women compared to 75 percent of men.
During the study, a surprising finding emerged that despite women having half the plaque volume of men, the risk of a cardiac event remained nearly equal. After a two year follow up, women were found to have a similar risk of death as men, as well as comparable chances of non fatal heart attack or angina.
Furthermore, the research showed that the risk of heart disease in women begins to rise at a lower plaque level compared to men, starting at 20 percent plaque level in women, while in men it begins at 28 percent. The risk increases rapidly as plaque builds up, particularly after menopause.
The lead researchers stated that because women’s coronary arteries are smaller, even a small amount of plaque can have a greater impact.
The study highlights biological differences in the progression of heart disease between men and women and underscores the importance of gender based risk assessment and preventive strategies.
