Which risk factor for coronary heart disease poses a greater risk for women than men?

Diabetes mellitus significantly increases the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) and poses a greater risk for women than men. Research has shown that women with diabetes face a higher relative risk of developing CHD when compared to their male counterparts. This heightened risk can be attributed to several factors, including differences in the way men and women present with heart disease, hormone effects, and variations in metabolic responses to diabetes.

In women, diabetes can lead to more aggressive forms of cardiovascular disease and may mask typical symptoms, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Moreover, the presence of diabetes in women is often coupled with other risk factors such as hypertension and obesity, which can compound the overall cardiovascular risk.

While high cholesterol levels, smoking, and age-related declines are notable risk factors for both genders, the impact of diabetes is particularly pronounced in women, making it a crucial factor to consider in assessing CHD risk.