New Italian Study Reveals Hidden Risks in Women's Heart Health

A new Italian study is focusing on acute coronary syndromes (ACS) in women, a group often overlooked in heart disease research. The GEDI-ACS registry has started tracking 100 female patients across multiple cardiovascular centres to better understand their experiences and risks. Early findings highlight unique challenges, including pregnancy-related complications and a high rate of non-obstructive heart attacks.

The registry enrolled its first 68 women, with an average age of 68. Most had low health literacy, and 7.4% came from non-Caucasian backgrounds. Chest pain was the main symptom in 88.2% of cases, with ACS marking the first heart-related event for 86% of them.

Common risk factors were widespread: 83.6% had abnormal cholesterol levels, 77.9% suffered from high blood pressure, and half had smoked. Pregnancy complications also stood out, with 32.3% reporting miscarriages and 16.2% experiencing early menopause—both linked to higher heart disease risks.

Nearly 38.2% of patients had MINOCA, a type of heart attack without blocked arteries. While no dedicated guidelines exist for MINOCA, current recommendations suggest angiography and cardiac MRI for diagnosis. Women make up 5-25% of MINOCA cases, yet tailored treatments for pregnancy-related causes or spontaneous artery tears remain limited.

Within 30 days, no deaths, strokes, or repeat heart attacks occurred. However, 11.3% still reported chest pain. The study collects data on biological, social, and psychological factors to improve diagnosis and care for women with ACS.

The GEDI-ACS registry aims to fill gaps in women's heart health research by examining diverse risk factors and outcomes. Initial results show high rates of pregnancy-related risks and non-obstructive heart attacks, though short-term recovery appears stable. Further analysis may lead to more personalised treatment approaches for female patients.