Are at-risk New Zealand women receiving recommended cardiovascular preventive therapy?

AIM

To determine whether use of cardiovascular medications by a sample of mid-life and older women is consistent with New Zealand cardiovascular risk guidelines.

METHOD

Retrospective analysis of risk factor data collected during the Women's Lifestyle Study involving 1089 40-74 year old women. Outcome measures included: 5-year cardiovascular (CVD) risk score calculated using the adjusted Framingham equation and self-reported use of cardiovascular medications.

RESULTS

Seven percent (76/1089) of women had established CVD, and a further 3% (33/1089) had a risk score greater than 15% (high risk). Of the 109 women at high risk (risk score = or >15% or established CVD); 36% (39/109) were taking aspirin, 55% (60/109) were taking blood pressure-lowering medication, 45% (49/109) were taking lipid-lowering medications and 17% (19/109) were taking all three medications. Triple therapy was being taken by 12% of women (4/33) for primary prevention (5-year risk score = or >15%) and only 19.7% of women for secondary prevention (15/76).

CONCLUSION

These results suggest that women at high-risk are not receiving cardiovascular medications as recommended by the guidelines, reflecting a 'treatment gap.' Modifiable barriers to the management of women at risk for CVD need to be identified and addressed to reduce cardiovascular morbidity and mortality among women.