Abstract
Background
Recent reports evidenced gender differences in the knowledge, perception and awareness of cardiovascular risk factors and cardiovascular diseases.
Purposes
To evaluate trends in awareness of cardiovascular risk, as well as knowledge of symptoms and preventive behaviors related to cardiovascular disease (CVD).
Methods
As part of Vivi con il Cuore (campaign with the goal of raising awareness about women's heart disease) a nationwide survey was conducted. Standardized questions on awareness of CVD risk, as well as prevention behaviors and barriers, were provided through a computer-assisted web interviewing platform to a large sample of Italians citizens ranging from 40 to 70 years old. The sample was representative of the population by age, sex, and area of geographical residence.
Results
A total of 1,000 subjects were included in this survey, of which 511 (51%) female. About 60% of women indicated cancer as the leading cause of death among female sex, while only 22% indicated cardiovascular disease. Similarly, when the same question was asked to men, 44% indicated cancer and 21% cardiovascular disease, observations that were consistent across age categories. Although a well sizable part of the population (90% of the interviewees) have consulted the general practitioner in the last year, only 45% of women and 56% of men declared to receive information about CVD risk. Almost 84% among men and women, recognized the importance of knowing how to understand the symptoms of a heart attack due to the possibility of survival. An additional survey was conducted among young cardiologists under 40 years old, including a total of 200 young cardiologists, similarly distributed among men and women (47% and 53% respectively). About 24% of young cardiologists indicated breast cancer as the leading cause of death in women, while only 70% reported cardiovascular diseases. Furthermore, 35% of participants reported that they did not have adequate training on the risks of heart disease in women.
Conclusions
In this survey, only 22% of women were aware that cardiovascular disease is the number one killer of women. Likewise, a well sizable part of young cardiologists (30%) does not recognize cardiovascular disease as the leading cause of death in women. These data should inform public health campaigns to focus on evidence-based strategies to prevent CVD and to help target messages that resonate and motivate women to take action.
Funding Acknowledgement
Type of funding source: Private company. Main funding source(s): Abbott
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