Percutaneous revascularization in women with coronary artery disease: We've come so far, yet have so far to go

Coronary artery disease (CAD) has traditionally been thought of as a disease that predominantly affects men. Women, however, are more likely than men to die from a myocardial infarction (MI). In this article, the data on access to cardiovascular care, treatment of stable and unstable coronary disease, and outcomes in women undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) will be reviewed. Despite increased awareness of heart disease in women, and improved outcomes after PCI, women with MI have more mortality and delays to treatment than men. Women with CAD have symptoms that differ from men with CAD. Improved understanding of the symptoms of CAD in women by patients and health care providers may improve treatment and outcomes in women with CAD.