Cardiovascular disease is the leading cause of death in women worldwide, but historically, there have been disparities in diagnosing the condition in women due to different symptoms compared to men. Researchers from Brigham and Women’s Hospital have discovered that measuring three different biological blood markers can better predict a woman’s risk of experiencing a major cardiovascular event over the next 30 years compared to measuring only one biomarker. This study, recently published in the New England Journal of Medicine, utilized data from the Women’s Health Study (WHS) to analyze and compare the risks associated with these markers.
Lead author Paul M. Ridker highlighted the importance of early intervention and prevention for heart disease in women, stating that heart disease remains under-diagnosed and under-treated. The study found that measuring three different biomarkers – hsCRP, LDL-C, and Lp(a) – each representing modifiable biological processes, can provide a more comprehensive assessment of a woman’s risk of developing heart disease. By incorporating universal screening for these biomarkers, physicians can identify and address specific issues unique to each patient, potentially leading to more effective prevention strategies.
The researchers observed that inflammation assessed by hsCRP was associated with increased risks of a major cardiovascular event 30 years later, emphasizing the role of the immune system in driving atherosclerotic disease. Ridker pointed out the importance of lowering inflammation to reduce heart attack and stroke rates, noting that the FDA has approved targeted anti-inflammatory treatments for heart disease. Participants with elevated levels of all three biomarkers were found to have significantly higher risks of adverse cardiovascular events, suggesting the importance of early screening and preventive therapies to mitigate these risks.
Nicole Weinberg, a board-certified cardiologist, emphasized the significance of incorporating advanced lipid tests, such as lipoprotein (a), into women’s preventative testing to identify risks for cardiovascular conditions. She highlighted the complex nature of cardiovascular risk factors, likening them to pieces of a puzzle that need to be identified and modified early to prevent potential cardiovascular events. Weinberg stressed the importance of early detection and risk modification to mitigate the impact of cardiovascular disease in women, underscoring the need for more comprehensive screening measures.
Ridker further emphasized the need to change guidelines to include universal screening for the three blood biomarkers in young women, as early intervention and preventive therapies are crucial in reducing the burden of heart disease in women. He proposed screening in one’s 30s and 40s to allow for the timely implementation of preventive strategies such as dietary modifications, regular exercise, and smoking cessation. By addressing lifetime risks rather than short-term risks, healthcare providers can tailor treatment plans to address the specific issues that put female patients at risk for heart disease, ultimately improving outcomes and reducing mortality rates.
In conclusion, the study underscores the importance of incorporating comprehensive screening measures for cardiovascular risk factors, particularly in women, to identify and mitigate the risks associated with heart disease. By measuring multiple biomarkers and addressing modifiable biological processes, healthcare providers can offer more personalized and effective preventive strategies to reduce the incidence of major cardiovascular events in women. Early detection, risk assessment, and preventive interventions are crucial in tackling the global burden of cardiovascular disease in women and promoting heart health throughout the lifespan.
