Women with Class-IV Angina Take Note

McMaster University, Ontario, Canada has just concluded a six-year research study to determine the gender differences associated with severe Coronary Artery Disease (CAD).

They have discovered that women with Class-IV angina are more likely to develop CAD than their male counterparts. In fact, the figures that emerged are astonishing. Catherine Kreatsoulas, Lead Author, states,

“CAD is the leading cause of ill health and death in men and women in the western world, accounting for over a third of deaths”

.  She goes on to say,

“Our research found that women with Class-IV angina, which means they are unable to perform any activity without symptoms and even suffer angina at rest, are significantly more likely to have severe CAD than men with the same condition.”

This research will go a long way to help doctors better identify women who are at risk. This means that they will be able to better identify patients for the right diagnostic tests earlier. It also means that they can tailor treatment strategies. Read the full article here. The research document can be accessed here.

So what can you do to prevent angina or minimize your symptoms in order to reduce the risk of heart attack or stroke. Significant Lifestyle changes are required which your doctor will emphasize to you and from this research it is clear that the advice should be vigorously adhered to.

Treatment for angina involves taking a range of drugs on a daily basis to provide relief from the symptoms, prevent episodes and to reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. If there is no response to the drug regime or the angina is severe then surgery may be necessary.

Due to the risk level of heart attack, stroke and the amount of prescription drugs being taken it is highly recommended that patients wear medical alert jewellery detailing their condition and the medication that they are taking.

Further Resources:

American Heart Association

Lifestyle Change Advice

Treatments Explained

Diabetes Bracelet