New global definition of heart attack to improve outcomes for women
A new global definition of heart attacks has been introduced to improve diagnostic accuracy for women, who often present with different symptoms than men. The guidelines include sex-specific blood test thresholds and better recognition of conditions like spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD).
Why it matters
Updating medical definitions to be gender-inclusive is critical for reducing misdiagnosis and improving health outcomes for women.
Nadene Hall didn't have any of the traditional risk factors of a heart attack, but still experienced one. ( Supplied: Nadene Hall )
Australian experts welcome a new global definition of heart attack, which they say will make it easier to diagnose women.
The updated guidelines group coronary events more common in women alongside the main type of heart attacks and recommend sex-specific diagnostic blood test thresholds.
Although these new guidelines will help improve diagnosis, experts say there are some gender gaps relating to cardiac treatment that still need to be addressed.
Link copied Share Share article Nadene Hall had never heard of a spontaneous coronary artery dissection (SCAD) heart attack until she had one.
It was 7:30am on March 25, 2023, and Ms Hall was finishing up a strength-based session at the gym when she felt a cramp across her chest.
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