Sex/Gender Differences in Hypertension and Dyslipidemia

Hypertension and dyslipidemia are modifiable risk factors for the development of cardiovascular disease in women. Throughout their lives, women experience biological processes and events related to hormonal changes, such as puberty, pregnancy, childbirth, the use of birth control pills, and menopause. Women’s risk factors for hypertension differ from those of men, with hormonal changes associated with the reproductive cycle being one of the most important factors. However, current guidelines for the diagnosis, management, and treatment of hypertension do not specifically address hypertension in women. Additionally, complications related to antihypertensive medication and adherence to treatment for hypertension in women can be more challenging to manage. Dyslipidemia in premenopausal women is associated with the use of oral or patch-type contraceptives and gynecological diseases (such as polycystic ovary disease, uterine fibroids, and endometriosis). Dyslipidemia in high-risk pregnancies can affect disease progression. There are no differences in the management of dyslipidemia between women and men, and statin therapy for women is initiated based on guideline-directed risk assessment. Proper screening, diagnosis, and management of hypertension and dyslipidemia throughout a woman’s life cycle are essential for reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease.