Assessment of Risk Factors for Coronary Artery Disease in Women Over 40 Years of Age

Dr. Sai Santosh

Abstract: Background: Coronary artery disease (CAD) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality in women globally, particularly post - menopause. Despite historical underrepresentation in cardiovascular research, emerging evidence highlights distinct gender - specific risk factors influencing the onset and progression of CAD in women. Objective: This study aimed to assess the risk factors associated with CAD in women aged 40 years and above, focusing on both traditional and sex - specific contributors, and to raise awareness for early detection and prevention. Methods: A retrospective analytical case - control study was conducted using medical records of 200 women diagnosed with CAD over a ten - year period. Risk factors assessed included diabetes, hypertension, stress, early menopause, smoking, lifestyle, and hereditary predisposition. Statistical analysis was performed to determine associations and odds ratios. Results: The study identified psychosocial stress (94.5%), hypertension (87.5%), and diabetes mellitus (81%) as the most significant risk factors. Early menopause (69%), sedentary lifestyle (70%), and hereditary factors (71%) also showed significant associations. Passive smoking, though present in 54% of participants, was not statistically significant. Conclusion: The findings underscore the multifactorial etiology of CAD in women, with a particularly high burden of psychosocial and metabolic risks. These results advocate for gender - specific screening protocols, preventive strategies, and heightened clinical awareness to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in women over 40 years of age.

Keywords: Coronary artery disease (CAD), Women's cardiovascular health, Postmenopausal risk, Psychosocial stress, Hypertension, Diabetes mellitus, Early menopause, Lifestyle risk factors