Why are men more susceptible to heart disease than women?

Lifestyle, genetics, and environment play a role in heart disease risk. However, there is some debate about whether testosterone, the main male sex hormone, is related to heart disease risk, according to the health website Livestrong (USA).

Men are at risk of heart disease earlier than women

Men are at higher risk of heart disease than women for the following reasons:

More susceptible to coronary artery disease

Many studies have confirmed that men are at higher risk of heart disease than women. The American Heart Association says men tend to develop heart disease earlier than women.

The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also revealed that men have a higher lifetime risk of coronary artery disease (CAD) than women. In addition, many factors contribute to this difference, such as cholesterol levels, the ability to regulate blood pressure, and the stiffness of the arteries.

The role of testosterone

Testosterone has long been suspected of being linked to cardiovascular disease. It is the primary male sex hormone, responsible for maintaining muscle mass, regulating bone density and producing red blood cells. However, its effects on cardiovascular health remain controversial.

Studies show that testosterone affects lipid metabolism, blood vessel function, and inflammation. Some studies have found that high testosterone levels can increase blood pressure, blood cholesterol levels, and the risk of plaque buildup in the arteries.

Protective effects of estrogen in women

One important reason women have a lower risk of heart disease before menopause is due to the protective effects of the female hormone estrogen. Estrogen helps maintain vascular health by improving endothelial function, reducing inflammation, and increasing levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL), also known as “good” cholesterol.

This hormone also helps regulate blood pressure and blood sugar metabolism, both of which are important for heart health. After menopause, when estrogen levels drop, women's risk of heart disease increases and approaches that of men.

Difference in lifestyle

In addition to biological factors, men and women often have different lifestyle habits that affect their risk of heart disease. Men tend to have behaviors that increase their risk of heart disease, such as smoking, drinking too much alcohol, eating high-fat foods and being less health-conscious than women, according to Livestrong.

Source: https://thanhnien.vn/tai-sao-nam-gioi-de-mac-benh-tim-hon-phu-nu-185250311184339056.htm