Italian Study Reveals Hidden Heart Risks Facing Women with Acute Coronary Syndromes

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 begun enrolling 100 female patients across major cardiovascular centres to better understand their unique risks and experiences. Early findings already highlight key differences in symptoms, complications, and underlying conditions compared to men.

The registry aims to gather detailed data on sex-specific factors influencing ACS in women. So far, 68 participants have been enrolled, with an average age of 68. Among them, 7.4% come from non-Caucasian backgrounds, and 85.3% show low health literacy. Chest pain was the most common symptom, reported by 88.2% of the women, while 86% experienced ACS as their first cardiovascular event.

Autoimmune diseases were present in 32.2% of the group, and psychosocial stressors—such as anxiety and depression—affected 42.6%. Pregnancy-related issues also played a significant role, with 32.3% reporting miscarriages and 16.2% experiencing premature menopause. These factors are known to influence long-term heart health.

Notably, 38.2% of the women suffered myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA), a condition requiring deeper investigation. Traditional risk factors remained widespread: 83.6% had dyslipidaemia, 77.9% had hypertension, and half had a history of smoking.

The study will combine socioeconomic, psychosocial, biochemical, and molecular data to improve diagnosis and treatment for women with ACS.

The GEDI-ACS registry provides critical insights into ACS in women, where mortality risks are higher than in men. By examining a diverse group across multiple centres, the findings could lead to more tailored medical approaches. The data will help address gaps in research and improve outcomes for female patients with heart disease.