February marks American Heart Month, drawing attention to cardiovascular disease as the leading cause of death in the United States. Women face unique cardiac health challenges that result in underdiagnosis and worse outcomes compared to men. Dr. Joy Gelbman, Associate Professor of Medicine at Weill Cornell Medicine, specializes in these gender-specific cardiac issues.

Biological and clinical factors contribute to disparities in how women experience and receive treatment for heart disease. Women often present with different symptoms than men, leading to delayed diagnosis and treatment. Healthcare system factors compound these challenges, creating gaps in care that impact survival rates and recovery outcomes.

Dr. Gelbman discussed these critical issues with Bloomberg Businessweek hosts Carol Massar and Tim Stenovec, breaking down the complex interplay of sex-specific risk factors and treatment disparities. Her expertise highlights the urgent need for improved awareness and tailored approaches to women's cardiovascular health care.