New Italian Study Uncovers Hidden Risks for Women with Heart Disease

A new Italian study is examining acute coronary syndromes (ACS) in women, a condition closely linked to ischaemic heart disease—the world's leading cause of death. The GEDI-ACS registry has begun enrolling 100 female patients across four major cardiovascular centres to better understand their unique risks and treatment needs.

Initial findings from 68 enrolled women reveal an average age of 68, with 7.4% identifying as non-Caucasian. The majority had multiple cardiovascular risk factors: 83.6% suffered from dyslipidaemia, 77.9% had hypertension, and half had a history of smoking. Pregnancy-related complications were also common, with 32.3% reporting miscarriages and 16.2% experiencing premature menopause.

For most women, ACS marked their first cardiovascular event, with chest pain being the primary symptom in 88.2% of cases. The study further highlights a critical gap in patient awareness, as 85.3% demonstrated low health literacy. Researchers are analysing sex-specific factors—including socioeconomic, psychosocial, and molecular data—to develop more precise diagnostic and management strategies.

The registry aims to address the higher mortality risk faced by women with ACS compared to men. By focusing on female patient profiles, GEDI-ACS seeks to improve outcomes through tailored interventions.

The GEDI-ACS study is collecting detailed data on 100 women with ACS to refine treatment approaches. Early results underscore the prevalence of risk factors, pregnancy-related complications, and low health literacy in this group. The findings could lead to more effective, sex-specific care strategies in the future.