Differences in Factors Linked to Heart Failure Between Men and Women

Recent research has shed light on the varying factors associated with heart failure in men and women, emphasizing the importance of sex-specific risk profiles. According to a study published on August 22, 2025, in the Journal of Primary Care and Community Health, women with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) tend to be older and have higher rates of conditions such as asthma, osteoarthritis, depression, hypothyroidism, and anxiety compared to men with similar heart failure types. The study analyzed 460 women and 258 men with HFpEF and found that the likelihood of developing HFpEF increased with age, higher body mass index (BMI), and the presence of rheumatological or mental health disorders among women.

In the case of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), the study included 225 women and 250 men. It revealed that women with HFrEF had higher prevalence rates of asthma, depression, hypothyroidism, and anxiety. Notably, Black women showed a greater odds ratio for HFrEF, indicating a significant racial disparity. The researchers noted that women with heart failure often present with different comorbidities compared to men, suggesting a need for tailored treatment approaches.

Overall, this study highlights that certain health conditions and demographic factors influence heart failure risk differently in men and women. Recognizing these sex-specific differences is crucial for improving prevention, diagnosis, and management strategies for heart failure.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-08-variables-heart-failure-men-women.html