Grant: Project Grant

How Stress Affects Heart Health Differently in Men and Women Heart disease is a leading cause of death in Canada, with women being particularly affected. While medical advancements have improved outcomes, heart disease deaths in women under 55 have been rising since 2017. One major reason is that heart disease looks different in women compared to men. Women are more likely to develop problems in the small blood vessels of the heart (microvascular dysfunction), a condition that increases the risk of serious heart problems, but is difficult to diagnose with standard tests. Stress is a well-known risk factor for heart disease, but research suggests that it may affect men and women differently. Our recent studies have found that women who experience high levels of stress show increased signs of heart inflammation on advanced imaging. This inflammation may be an early warning sign leading to microvascular dysfunction and heart disease in women. Our study aims to better understand how stress contributes to heart disease differently in men and women, focusing on inflammation as a key link between stress and small blood vessel dysfunction. To do this, we are using a cutting-edge MRI technique that allows us to measure heart health without the need for injections or radiation. This innovative approach will help us detect early heart changes caused by stress before symptoms appear. By identifying these early warning signs, we can improve how heart disease is prevented and treated, particularly in women, who are often underdiagnosed or misdiagnosed. This research will also explore biological and social differences between men and women, ensuring that both sex and gender factors are considered. Our findings will help emphasize mental health as an important risk factor for heart disease, ultimately leading to better prevention strategies tailored to men and women's unique needs.