Gender disparities in optimal lipid control among patients with coronary artery disease

Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the leading cause of death worldwide in both men and women. Hypercholesterolemia is a major factor contributing to the incidence of CHD. Many lipid-lowering trials have shown statins to be effective medications for the primary and secondary prevention of CHD. Some studies have suggested that statins are as or more effective in women than in men. However, there is a substantial gender gap in lipid goal attainment with respect to primary care guidelines, as reported in observational studies. In this article, we attempt to explain gender differences in lipid control in individuals with or at risk of CHD in order to improve awareness of and narrow gaps in gender disparities in lipid management.