A new risk score helps accurately predict the risk of major adverse cardiovascular events in women. In an article published in the Revue radiology: Cardiothoracic Imaging, the results of a recent study show the benefits of a new approach that integrates clinical variables and imaging data.
According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, heart disease is the leading cause of death among women worldwide, although it affects men more.
Are women underrepresented for cardiovascular risk in the scientific literature?
A Spanish study published in the Revue radiology: Cardiothoracic Imaging assumes that, as a result, they are neglected in the scientific literature. “Women are often underrepresented in research studies and, in certain contexts, may be excluded,” reports the study’s lead author, Prof. Guillermo Romero-Farina, cardiologist and principal investigator at Vall University Hospital. from Hebron to Barcelona (Spain). Risk stratification in women is particularly important because the clinical presentation of coronary heart disease in women may differ from that in men and is often atypical. »
A study involving myocardial perfusion explored by SPECT and follow-up over several years
Coronary risk stratification models are an important tool in this setting, including the establishment of a Coronary Risk Score in Women (CORSWO), which can help predict major cardiovascular events. In this retrospective study, Prof. Romero-Farina and colleagues analyzed data from 2,226 women aged 40 to 93 years explored within the Nuclear Cardiology Unit of the Vall d’Hebron University Hospital for an evaluation risks.
All patients underwent SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging and followed up for approximately four years. The maximum follow-up duration was 10 years and all follow-ups took place in hospital following a major adverse cardiovascular event. Using eight variables, CORSWO calculated patients’ risk of cardiac events and categorized them into four risk levels: low, moderate, high and very high.
A new approach integrating clinical variables and imaging data to prevent risk
“By grouping patients according to different risk levels, ranging from low to very high, doctors can better focus resources and treatments on those who need them most,” adds Professor Romero-Farina. The model accurately predicted major adverse cardiovascular events in women classified as high and very high risk and performed better than other risk models.
The researchers note that this new approach of integrating clinical, exercise-related, and imaging-based variables is important for accurately calculating the risk of cardiac events in women. “This approach helps us detect potential heart problems earlier, especially serious events, such as heart attacks and sudden cardiac death, which are the conditions cardiologists most want to prevent. »
Paolo Royan
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