AHA Emphasizes Inclusive CVD Risk Assessment for Women

Core Concepts

Incorporating nonbiological and social factors is crucial in comprehensive CVD risk assessment for women.

Abstract

The American Heart Association (AHA) emphasizes the importance of considering nonbiological risk factors and social determinants of health in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk assessment for women, especially those from diverse backgrounds. The scientific statement published in Circulation on April 10, 2023, highlights the need for a more inclusive approach to assessing CVD risk in women, going beyond traditional risk factors to address sex-specific biological factors and social determinants of health. The statement underscores the significance of understanding female-specific risk factors, such as pregnancy-related conditions, menstrual history, and autoimmune disorders, in assessing CVD risk. Additionally, it stresses the role of social determinants of health, including education, economic stability, and access to quality healthcare, in shaping CVD risk among women from different racial and ethnic backgrounds. The statement advocates for tailored prevention and treatment strategies that consider the complex interplay of sex, race, ethnicity, and social determinants of health to improve cardiovascular outcomes for all women.

Stats

"Risk assessment is the first step in preventing heart disease, yet there are many limitations to traditional risk factors and their ability to comprehensively estimate a woman's risk for cardiovascular disease," - Jennifer H. Mieres, MD
"Female-specific factors that should be included in CVD risk assessment include pregnancy-related conditions such as preeclampsia, preterm delivery, and gestational diabetes," - Writing Group
"It is critical that risk assessment be expanded to include [SDOH] as risk factors if we are to improve health outcomes in all women," - Laxmi S. Mehta, MD

Quotes

"Risk assessment is the first step in preventing heart disease, yet there are many limitations to traditional risk factors and their ability to comprehensively estimate a woman's risk for cardiovascular disease." - Jennifer H. Mieres, MD
"It is critical that risk assessment be expanded to include [SDOH] as risk factors if we are to improve health outcomes in all women." - Laxmi S. Mehta, MD

Key Insights Distilled From

AHA Statement Targets Nuance in CVD Risk Assessment of Women

by Megan Brooks at www.medscape.com 04-11-2023

https://www.medscape.com/viewarticle/990637

Deeper Inquiries

How can healthcare providers effectively integrate social determinants of health into CVD risk assessment and treatment plans?

Healthcare providers can effectively integrate social determinants of health (SDOH) into cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk assessment and treatment plans by first recognizing the impact of factors such as education level, economic stability, neighborhood safety, working conditions, environmental hazards, and access to quality healthcare on a woman's risk for CVD. Providers should undergo training to increase their awareness of these social determinants and their influence on health outcomes. Incorporating screening tools that assess SDOH during patient encounters can help identify at-risk individuals. Additionally, healthcare teams should collaborate with social workers, community organizations, and public health agencies to address these social determinants in a holistic approach to CVD prevention and treatment.

How can healthcare providers effectively integrate social determinants of health into CVD risk assessment and treatment plans?

One challenge in implementing culturally-specific lifestyle recommendations in CVD prevention guidelines is ensuring that these recommendations are evidence-based and tailored to the unique needs and preferences of diverse populations. Healthcare providers may face difficulties in accessing culturally relevant resources and guidelines that address the specific cultural practices, beliefs, and traditions of different racial and ethnic groups. Language barriers and lack of cultural competence among healthcare providers can also hinder the effective implementation of culturally-specific recommendations. To overcome these challenges, collaboration with community leaders, cultural experts, and patient advocates is essential to develop culturally sensitive guidelines that resonate with diverse populations.

How can community-based approaches and peer support be leveraged to promote cardiovascular health among women, considering diverse backgrounds and social determinants of health?

Community-based approaches and peer support can be leveraged to promote cardiovascular health among women by creating culturally tailored programs that address the unique needs and challenges faced by women from diverse backgrounds. Community health workers and peer educators can serve as trusted sources of information and support, helping to bridge the gap between healthcare providers and underserved communities. By partnering with local organizations, faith-based groups, and community centers, healthcare providers can reach women who may face barriers to accessing traditional healthcare services. Peer support groups can provide emotional support, encouragement, and accountability for women striving to adopt healthy lifestyle changes. These community-based initiatives can empower women to take control of their cardiovascular health and reduce disparities in CVD outcomes.