What's Happening?
Midlife women in the U.S. are often misdiagnosed with anxiety when they present symptoms that could indicate heart disease. Cardiologists highlight that conditions like ischemia with no obstructive coronary artery disease (INOCA) and myocardial infarction
with nonobstructive coronary arteries (MINOCA) are frequently overlooked because their symptoms can mimic anxiety. This misdiagnosis is compounded by the fact that many heart conditions common in women do not show up on routine tests designed for detecting large arterial blockages, which are more typical in men. Experts stress the need for detailed patient histories and a shift in medical education to address sex-specific differences in cardiovascular health.
Why It's Important?
Heart disease is the leading cause of death for women in the U.S., and misdiagnosis can lead to delayed treatment and worse outcomes. The overlap between anxiety symptoms and heart disease in women highlights a critical gap in healthcare that needs to be addressed. Improving diagnostic accuracy could lead to better health outcomes and reduce the risk of heart attacks and other serious conditions. This issue also underscores the importance of gender-specific research and training in medical education to ensure that women receive appropriate and timely care.
What's Next?
To address this issue, systemic changes in medical education and practice are necessary. This includes incorporating sex-specific differences into cardiology training and fostering interdisciplinary care that considers both physical and mental health. Healthcare providers are encouraged to maintain a high index of suspicion for cardiac causes in women presenting with anxiety-like symptoms. Additionally, public health campaigns may need to focus on raising awareness about the unique presentation of heart disease in women to encourage early detection and intervention.
