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Cardiovascular disease in women is an integral area of research in the ongoing studies of women's health. Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is an umbrella term for a wide range of diseases affecting the heart and blood vessels, including but not limited to, coronary artery disease, stroke, cardiomyopathy, myocardial infarctions, and aortic aneurysms.
A myocardial infarction (MI), commonly known as a heart attack, occurs when blood flow decreases or stops in one of the coronary arteries of the heart, causing infarction (tissue death) to the heart muscle. [1] The most common symptom is retrosternal chest pain or discomfort that classically radiates to the left shoulder, arm, or jaw. [1]
Certain individuals such as women, diabetics, and the elderly may present with more varied symptoms. [8] If blood flow through the coronary arteries is stopped completely, cardiac muscle cells may die, known as a myocardial infarction, or heart attack. [9] Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the most common cause of coronary ischemia. [7]
It is particularly prevalent among young women with myocardial infarction (MI) and those with psychological comorbidities. [2] Studies have found that young women who have had a myocardial infarction are twice as likely to develop mental stress-induced myocardial ischemia (MSIMI) compared to men of similar age. [4]
It occurs more frequently in men than women. [10] Onset is most often in middle age. [5] Five-year survival rate is about 50%. [9] It can also occur in children and is the most common type of cardiomyopathy in this age group. [9]
This blood clot may then restrict blood flow within the heart, leading to heart tissue damage, or a myocardial infarction, also known as a heart attack. [1] Coronary thrombosis is most commonly caused as a downstream effect of atherosclerosis, a buildup of cholesterol and fats in the artery walls.
Secondary prevention is discussed in myocardial infarction. [ 20 ] After a ban on smoking in all enclosed public places was introduced in Scotland in March 2006, there was a 17% reduction in hospital admissions for acute coronary syndrome. 67% of the decrease occurred in non-smokers.
The most common cause in this category is fainting associated with an acute myocardial infarction or ischemic event. The faint in this case is primarily caused by an abnormal nervous system reaction similar to the reflex faints. Women are significantly more likely to experience syncope as a presenting symptom of a myocardial infarction. [22]